What is a catalytic wood-burning stove?

A catalytic wood-burning stove uses a catalytic converter to reduce the temperature at which smoke combusts. It allows the smoke to catch fire at a lowered 500 to 550 degrees Fahrenheit rather than the 1,100 degrees required in non-catalytic, wood-burning stoves.

The honeycomb-like catalyst is placed in the path of the smoke. Soon after it reaches 550 degrees, it increases in temperature. Once the catalyst is hot enough, a smoldering fire is all that is needed. The smoke in the stove serves as fuel for the catalyst. The result is a longer burn time using less wood and increased efficiency.