2025 ECerS - FIRE Summer School - Abstract of Christoph Wöhrmeyer

Refractory ceramics and raw materials in a changing industrial environment

Dr. Christoph Wöhrmeyer

Imerys, France

The presentation explores the evolving landscape of high-temperature materials processing and refractory ceramics applications in a low-carbon world. The discussion will encompass three key areas:

1. Innovative Processing Techniques: An examination of novel, low-carbon methods for processing high-temperature materials, including unconventional approaches such as biomass supported high temperature processes, hydrogen combustion, and different possibilities for electrification (eg. microwave technology, plasma treatments). These techniques are evaluated for their potential to reduce carbon footprints in material processing while maintaining or enhancing product quality.
2. Changing Refractory Environments: Shifting demands on refractory materials in thermal processing industries, with particular attention to emerging technologies like Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) in steelmaking. This section explores how these changes impact refractory material selection, design, and performance requirements.
3. Circular Economy Approach: An investigation into the implementation of circular economy principles in the high-temperature materials sector, emphasising the importance of recycling and the transition from downstream to upstream thinking. This approach aims to minimise waste, maximise resource efficiency, and reduce environmental impact throughout the material life cycle.

The topic highlights the interconnections of these themes and their collective importance in shaping the future of high-temperature materials in an increasingly sustainability-focused industrial landscape.

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