The use of catalytic converters in automobiles is mandatory to reach current emission limits for toxic engine byproducts. The goal of zero-emissions remains elusive for internal combustion engines, yet tightening of legislation towards this ideal continues. To meet this demand, scientists and engineers must further their understanding of the operation of catalytic converters to improve their performance. This literature review describes the research on gaseous reactions catalysed by platinum, rhodium and palladium metals. While results using 'conventional' single crystal surface science techniques are explored, much of this review considers results obtained using field ion microscopy/atom probe (FIM/AP) nanocrystalline systems, which are excellent methods for examining catalytic particles in a similar form to which they exist commercially. To conclude, areas requiring further investigation are identified, such as lean burn reduction, improving light-off temperatures, increasing resistance to poisoning and improving understanding of the effects of gaseous reactant pressure. A great deal of fundamental work has still to be carried out in order to appreciate reaction mechanisms at an atomic level.