DELTA II

The FIRE DELTA v2 project, coordinated by Prof. Marc HUGER (IRCER - Limoges), is a European research initiative dedicated to the design, characterization and modelling of advanced refractory materials. Running from October 2020 to September 2027, the project brings together academic partners (IRCER – Limoges, LaMé - Orléans, GHI RWTH - Aachen), Chair of Ceramics - Leoben), alongside key industrial players (Altéo - Gardanne, RHIMagnesita - Leoben, Vesuvius - Ghlin, and TataSteel - Ijmuiden).

The scientific objectives of FIRE DELTA v2 aim to optimise the microstructure of model refractory materials for enhanced thermal shock resistance and durability under extreme conditions, to investigate H2-material interactions, and to develop and validate advanced numerical models (DEM, FEM, multiphysics coupling) capable of predicting the thermomechanical and chemical behaviour of refractory materials in service conditions.

The project also aims to strengthen the academic-industrial interface through co-constructed PhD topics, experimental validation, and the transfer of knowledge to industry. FIRE DELTA v2 integrates 5 PhD projects and a postdoctoral fellowship, each addressing a key scientific or technological challenge, from phosphate-bonded refractories in hydrogen atmospheres to the development of multiphysics simulation tools. In addition, the project actively promotes the mobility and training of Master’s students, typically hosting one or two each year. These Master’s research topics are closely aligned with, or complementary to, the main doctoral local themes, fostering early exposure to high-level research and preparing the next generation of experts in the field of refractory materials.