- Refractories are essential materials used in high-temperature industrial processes to line furnaces, kilns, incinerators, and reactors, providing thermal insulation and resistance to chemical attack, particularly in industries like steel, cement, glass, and petrochemicals
- The demand for refractories in North America is primarily driven by the region’s established steel and cement manufacturing industries, along with increasing investments in infrastructure and energy sectors requiring high-performance refractory solutions
- The U.S. leads the North American refractories market, accounting for roughly 70% of the regional market share. This leadership is due to the country’s large industrial base, modernization of manufacturing facilities, and adoption of advanced refractory materials for improved efficiency and sustainability
- Canada is emerging as a fast-growing market with around 20% regional share, driven by growing industrial production, government support for resource extraction and energy projects, and increased use of refractories in the aluminum and chemical sectors
- The iron and steel manufacturing segment is expected to dominate the North America refractories market with the largest share of approximately 50% in 2025, driven by the industry's reliance on high-performance refractory materials to withstand extreme temperatures during smelting, casting, and heat treatment processes
