How to Burn Wise with an EPA Catalytic Stove

[TriClydesdale]

Catalytic stoves have catalytic converters in the stoves that burn the smoke before it passes up the chimney resulting in a cleaner burn. One disadvantage to catalytic stoves is that every X years you have to replace the catalytic converter at $100 - $150 each time. Poor quality of wood (pine, etc.) will clog catalytic converters quicker than good hardwood.

[nossful]

What is the difference between a catalytic and non-catalytic wood stove? Does a non-catalytic stove refer to older woodstoves?  I am toatally confused about this concept.