Catalytic converter, what's inside?

[Herb]

I was wondering what was inside one of these things. The reason why I ask is if there was a couple of dents, let's say roughly 1/2" deep and about 2" diameter, would that effect it's performance?During my trip a couple of weeks ago, I didn't notice in time, what looked like a rubber wheel chock on the road and ran over it.I just changed the oil today and decided to go under for a more detailed survey of possible damage and noticed that on one side of the supports for the catalytic converter was bent back causing some dents where the bracket is attached to the CC.Since it's still supported on the opposite side, I dont' think it's in any danger of falling off anytime soon. That being said, it seems to me like a quick fix at a muffler shop to bend the bracket back and do some minor welding and replacing the rubber hanger. I know I probably should have it done before I forget, but wanted to get some more opinions first.

[NovaResource]

Basically it's a honeycomb if special metals inside. You may have damaged some of that honeycomb but not much going by the size you said.