Compositions and methods are provided forcleaning and/or rejuvenating
catalysts, including catalysts of the type used in vehicle catalytic
converters. The compositions of the invention comprise a hydrocarbon
source and an oxygen donor, which may be one and the same compound. The
composition may be combustible, and the composition may generate organic
acid vapor upon combustion. The composition may also include a number of
trace metals. Methods according to the invention include the steps of
bringing the catalyst up to working temperature and passing the
rejuvenating and/or cleansing composition or the combustion products of
the rejuvenating and/or cleansing composition over the catalyst.
