About the ECerS Refractory Network

Who We Are

Established in 2024 by the European Ceramic Society (ECerS), with the support of the Federation for International Refractory Research and Education (FIRE), the ECerS Refractory Network aims to strengthen collaboration and knowledge exchange within the European and international refractory community. The Network brings together researchers, industry professionals, academics, young scientists and students working in the field of refractory materials and high-temperature technologies. By connecting academic institutions, research centres and industrial stakeholders, the Network provides a platform for scientific exchange, professional development and international cooperation.

Our Mission

The mission of the ECerS Refractory Network is to foster a dynamic and collaborative community dedicated to advancing refractory materials research, innovation and education. The Network seeks to strengthen connections between academia and industry, encourage the exchange of scientific and technological knowledge, and support the next generation of refractory specialists.

Our Objectives

The ECerS Refractory Network focuses on five key objectives:

• Strengthening Scientific and Industrial Collaboration : Facilitate interactions between universities, research centres and industrial partners to encourage knowledge exchange, collaborative research and innovation in refractory materials.
• Promoting Knowledge Sharing : Disseminate information on scientific developments, research projects and emerging technologies through webinars, conferences and networking activities.
• Supporting Education and Young Researchers : Promote educational opportunities, student mobility, Master's-level exchanges and professional development for students and early-career researchers interested in refractory materials.
• Fostering International Cooperation : Strengthen collaboration between the European refractory community and international partners, particularly through cooperation with FIRE.
• Advancing Sustainable High-Temperature Technologies : Encourage scientific discussions and collaborative initiatives addressing major challenges in refractory materials, including energy efficiency, resource efficiency, circularity and the development of more sustainable high-temperature industrial processes.

A Network Connecting Academia and Industry

The ECerS Refractory Network provides a meeting point for the scientific and industrial communities involved in refractory materials. By facilitating dialogue between researchers, manufacturers, end users and technology developers, the Network aims to encourage the exchange of expertise, identify common research challenges and promote opportunities for collaboration. Particular attention is given to supporting young researchers and strengthening links between education, research and industrial applications.

Organisation and Support

The ECerS Refractory Network operates within the framework of the European Ceramic Society (ECerS), in cooperation with FIRE. The Network benefits from the support of the JECS Trust, which promotes research, education and scientific exchange within the European ceramics community. Its activities are coordinated by a committee bringing together representatives from research organisations, industry and partner institutions.