- In June 2024, MIRECO (a joint venture of RHI Magnesita and Horn & Co. Group) acquired Refrattari Trezzi, an Italian refractory recycling specialist. This acquisition expands MIRECO's production footprint into Italy and represents a significant step towards the decarbonization targets of the European refractories industry by increasing the use of secondary raw materials and promoting the circular economy
- In October 2024, Shinagawa Refractories Co., Ltd. acquired Gouda Refractories Group B.V., a Netherlands-based manufacturer of high-alumina refractories and provider of refractory services. This acquisition strengthens Shinagawa's presence in Europe, providing it with state-of-the-art manufacturing for premium white refractories and high-value service capabilities in the region
- In April 2023, RHI Magnesita, a global leader in refractories, announced the acquisition of the Europe, India, and US operations of Seven Refractories. This strategic move complements RHI Magnesita's existing non-basic refractories portfolio and aims to open new opportunities in the development of low CO2 emitting manufacturing technologies, supporting sustainability goals in key customer industries like steel and cement
- In October 2023, RHI Magnesita also acquired the refractory businesses of the Preiss-Daimler Group ("P-D Refractories") located in Germany, the Czech Republic, and Slovenia. This acquisition enhances RHI Magnesita's capabilities in alumina-based refractories and strengthens its presence in process industries, where the Group is currently under-represented
- In 2022, RHI Magnesita and the Horn & Co. Group combined their recycling activities in Europe to increase the production, use, and supply of secondary raw materials for the European refractory industry, targeting a substantial reduction of CO2 emissions. This initiative underscores the industry's commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles
- The ATHOR and CESAREF projects are ongoing collaborative and interdisciplinary initiatives in Europe, bringing together academic and industrial partners. These projects, funded by programs like Horizon Europe, focus on developing advanced thermomechanical modelling of refractory linings, optimizing the use of mineral resources, recycling, anticipating the use of hydrogen in steelmaking, and improving energy efficiency and durability of refractories. These collaborations aim to shape the future of refractory technology and contribute to the decarbonization of European energy-intensive industries
