Federation for International Refractory Research and Education
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Imerys & FIRE: Driving Innovation in Refractories Through Global Collaboration
I had the immense pleasure of being invited to talk about cooperative refractory research and education during the plenary session of the 20th China National Youth Academic Symposium on Refractories last May. The event took place in Yangzhou, China, and served as a perfect platform to promote the key mission of the Federation of International Refractory Research and Education (FIRE).
The conference in Yangzhou was a significant gathering, attracting approximately 400 delegates from both Chinese academic institutions and industrial sectors. Over two days of plenary and parallel technical sessions, participants engaged in deep discussions regarding the latest research findings and future development trajectories for the industry. A major focus was placed on the education and acquisition of young talents, which is vital for the long-term sustainability of the refractories segment and its product and service offerings.
FIRE plays a critical role in facilitating large-scale industrial-academic research consortia. This is exemplified by successful European Union-funded projects such as ATHOR and CESAREF. Looking ahead, the new project REFFRACTEUR is set to launch in October 2026 with 15 PhD students. This initiative will concentrate on cutting-edge fields including refractory data science, life cycle assessments supported by artificial intelligence, simulation tools, virtual design, and advanced testing methodologies to further modernize the industry and actively contribute to the necessary changes towards sustainable high temperature processes.
Imerys is proud to be one of the founding members of FIRE, which now celebrates a history spanning over more than 20 years and I’m personally happy of being engaged in this lively organization since its early days. The network was originally inspired by the visionary leadership of Prof. Michel Rigaud, who recognized that the relatively small refractory segment could only achieve necessary visibility among stakeholders if industry and academia collaborated closely. Today, FIRE has evolved into a vibrant technical and scientific refractory community with a global reach. As a member of the FIRE education community it's especially rewarding for me to see how many young talents, supported by the FIRE community, have developed their high level skills and passion for refractories.
Dr. Christoph Wöhrmeyer
Science & Technology Director - Refractory Producers
Refractory, Abrasives & Construction Business Area
Last news
Imerys & FIRE: Driving Innovation in Refractories Through Global Collaboration
I had the immense pleasure of being invited to talk about cooperative refractory research and education during the plenary session of the 20th China National Youth Academic Symposium on Refractories last May. The event took place in Yangzhou, China, and served as a perfect platform to promote the key mission of the Federation of International Refractory Research and Education (FIRE).
Highlight of FIRE Academic Members - Montanuniversität Leoben
Dietmar Gruber, Chair of Ceramics: "We are proud to be a founding member of FIRE, as FIRE unites Academia and Industry in refractories to accelerate global collaboration. From student exchanges to partnerships, we help people and ideas grow".
Contact us and/or Become Member!
Contact us for any information and/or to Become Member of FIRE: fire@ecers.org
