IMFORMED has just spent the week at the superb UNITECR 2025 in Cancun, where the global refractories community met for four days of networking, exhibits, and presentations.
A wide range of refractory industry topics were under discussion including raw materials and recycling, very close to IMFORMED’s heart.
In addition to IMFORMED as media partner, Mike ODriscoll was invited to present in the Basic Raw Materials I session on “Magnesia: A critical mineral? Supply trends & developments for the refractories market”, chair the session Secondary & Recycled Raw Materials I, and moderate the Raw Materials Panel: Global supply chain challenges & opportunities in the refractory industry.
“Magnesia: A critical mineral?” presented by Mike O’Driscoll at UNITECR 2025
Access to free PDF download here
The Raw Materials Panel developed into a most entertaining and informative forum, bringing to the audience insight, drama and passion on the key factors shaping the refractory minerals supply chain.
The panellists, whose invaluable participation was most appreciated, were:
- Álvaro Lopes, BU Head Minerals Division, RHI Magnesita
- Niklas Luedemann, Head of Business Development, Cremer Erzkontor
- Nicolas Mievilly, Vice President, Refractory, Imerys
- Mateus Quintela, CEO, ACTECH
- Nikhil Sobti, Head of International Business, Hindalco
In addition to comments on the latest US trade tariffs, most notable was the hot debate over the pending EC anti-dumping legislation on Chinese imports of fused alumina into the EU and the potential ramifications for both suppliers and buyers. Strong opinions were offered on both sides of the debate. Certainly a high point of the conference overall.
The event closed with a wonderful Mayan Ritual Performance, a tribute to the rich heritage of the Yucatan Peninsula, preceding a most convivial dinner.
Special thanks to Daniel Llaguno, CEO, Grupo Nutec and his team for organising a great conference.
See you in Osaka for UNITECR 2027, 7-10 November 2027!
