[Usa] Refractories Demand

Over the past several decades, there has been a massive rationalisation and consolidation in the US refractories industry; however, the outlook for the surviving producers is much brighter than the industry has experienced in recent memory. Refractories demand is projected to increase 1% annually to US$ 2.3BN in 2009, continuing a strong turnaround which began in late 2003. Nevertheless, most refractory materials are not expected to recover to 1999 levels until well after 2009. The switch to better performing products will continue. From a materials perspective, the best opportunities are expected for zircon, zirconia and silicon carbide among non clay refractories, and high-alumina clays among clay refractories.