The global refractories market is anticipated to grow from USD 49.5 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 118.2 billion by 2035, recording an absolute increase of USD 68.7 billion over the forecast period. This translates into a total growth of 138.8%, with the market forecast to expand at a CAGR of 9.1% between 2025 and 2035. The market size is expected to grow by nearly 2.39X during the same period, supported by increasing infrastructure development, rising demand from the steel and cement industries, and growing focus on energy-efficient refractory solutions.
Between 2025 and 2030, the refractories market is projected to expand from USD 49.5 billion to USD 76.3 billion, resulting in a value increase of USD 26.8 billion, which represents 39.0% of the total forecast growth for the decade. This phase of growth will be shaped by rising industrial production in emerging economies, increasing demand for high-performance refractory materials, and growing investments in infrastructure development. Manufacturing companies are expanding their refractory product portfolios to address the growing demand for specialized solutions in high-temperature industrial applications.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Estimated Value in (2025E) | USD 49.5 billion |
| Forecast Value in (2035F) | USD 118.2 billion |
| Forecast CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 9.1% |
From 2030 to 2035, the market is forecast to grow from USD 76.3 billion to USD 118.2 billion, adding another USD 41.9 billion, which constitutes 61.0% of the ten-year expansion. This period is expected to be characterized by technological advancements in refractory materials, development of eco-friendly refractory solutions, and increasing automation in manufacturing processes. The growing adoption of advanced ceramics and monolithic refractories will drive demand for next-generation materials with enhanced durability and thermal efficiency.
Between 2020 and 2025, the refractories market experienced steady expansion, driven by recovery in industrial production following global economic challenges and increasing focus on energy efficiency in high-temperature processes. The market developed as industries recognized the critical role of refractories in maintaining operational efficiency and reducing downtime in furnaces, kilns, and other thermal processing equipment. Industrial digitalization and quality control advancements began focusing the importance of high-performance refractories in modern manufacturing operations.
Market expansion is being supported by the increasing global infrastructure development and industrialization, particularly in emerging economies where steel production and cement manufacturing are experiencing rapid growth. Modern industries are increasingly focused on improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, creating demand for advanced refractory materials that can withstand higher temperatures while maintaining structural integrity. The critical role of refractories in maintaining furnace linings, protecting equipment from thermal stress, and ensuring operational continuity makes them indispensable in various industrial applications.
The growing focuses on green manufacturing practices is driving demand for recyclable and environmentally friendly refractory materials. Industrial sectors are seeking refractory solutions that offer extended service life, reduced maintenance requirements, and improved thermal management capabilities. The rising influence of Industry 4.0 technologies and smart manufacturing is also contributing to increased adoption of advanced refractory monitoring systems and predictive maintenance solutions across different industrial segments.
The market is segmented by end use, and region. By end use, the market is divided into iron & steel, cement & lime, glass & ceramics, non-ferrous metals, and others. Regionally, the market is divided into North America, Europe, East Asia, South Asia & Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa.
The iron & steel end use is projected to account for 67% of the refractories market in 2025, reaffirming its position as the largest consumer of refractory materials globally. The steel industry's continuous operation requirements and extreme temperature conditions necessitate high-quality refractory linings that can withstand thermal shock, chemical corrosion, and mechanical stress. Modern steel production processes, including blast furnaces, basic oxygen furnaces, and electric arc furnaces, rely heavily on specialized refractory materials to maintain operational efficiency and product quality.
This segment forms the backbone of refractory demand, as steel production remains fundamental to global industrial development and infrastructure growth. Technological advancements in steelmaking processes continue to drive innovation in refractory materials, with manufacturers developing specialized products for specific furnace zones and applications. With global steel production expected to maintain steady growth, particularly in developing economies, the iron & steel segment ensures dominance in driving refractory material consumption and technological advancement.
The refractories market is advancing rapidly due to increasing industrial production and growing demand for high-temperature materials in various manufacturing processes. The market faces challenges including raw material price volatility, environmental regulations regarding mining and production, and competition from alternative materials. Innovation in refractory formulations and manufacturing technologies continues to influence product development and market expansion patterns.
The growing investments in infrastructure development, particularly in emerging economies, are driving demand for refractories in cement production and construction materials manufacturing. Urbanization trends and industrial expansion projects require substantial quantities of refractory materials for kilns, furnaces, and other thermal processing equipment. Government initiatives supporting industrial development and manufacturing sector growth are creating demand for high-performance refractory solutions.
Modern refractory manufacturers are incorporating advanced technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence, and IoT sensors to improve production efficiency and product quality. Digital monitoring systems enable real-time tracking of refractory performance, predictive maintenance scheduling, and optimization of replacement cycles. These technological advancements enhance operational efficiency while reducing downtime and maintenance costs for industrial users.
| Country | CAGR (2025-2035) |
|---|---|
| China | 12.3% |
| India | 11.4% |
| Germany | 10.5% |
| France | 9.6% |
| UK | 8.6% |
| USA | 7.7% |
| Brazil | 6.8% |
The refractories market is experiencing robust growth globally, with China leading at a 12.3% CAGR through 2035, driven by massive industrial production capacity, ongoing infrastructure development, and dominance in steel and cement manufacturing. India follows at 11.4%, supported by rapid industrialization, expanding manufacturing sector, and government initiatives promoting domestic production. Germany shows steady growth at 10.5%, focusing advanced materials technology and high-quality specialized refractories. France records 9.6%, focusing on eco-friendly refractory solutions and circular economy practices. The UK shows 8.6% growth, prioritizing energy-efficient materials and innovative manufacturing processes.
The report covers an in-depth analysis of 40+ countries; seven top-performing countries are highlighted below.
Revenue from refractories in China is projected to exhibit strong growth with a CAGR of 12.3% through 2035, driven by the country's position as the world's largest steel producer and cement manufacturer. China's massive industrial base and continuous infrastructure development create unprecedented demand for refractory materials across multiple sectors. Major domestic and international refractory manufacturers are expanding production capacities to serve the growing requirements of Chinese industries.
Revenue from refractories in India is expanding at a CAGR of 11.4%, supported by rapid industrialization, growing steel production capacity, and massive infrastructure development projects. The country's ambitious manufacturing initiatives and increasing focus on self-reliance are driving demand for domestically produced refractory materials. International companies are establishing manufacturing facilities and technical partnerships to serve India's expanding industrial base.
Revenue from refractories in Germany is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.5% through 2035, driven by the country's advanced manufacturing capabilities and focus on high-quality specialized refractory solutions. German manufacturers consistently deliver innovative products that meet stringent performance requirements in automotive, chemical, and steel industries. The focuses on research and development ensures continuous improvement in refractory technology and application methods.
Revenue from refractories in France is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.6% through 2035, supported by the country's focus on circular economy principles. French manufacturers are pioneering recyclable refractory materials and developing solutions that minimize waste generation and energy consumption. The diverse industrial base creates demand for specialized refractory products across multiple sectors.
Revenue from refractories in the UK is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.6% through 2035, supported by specialized manufacturing sectors and focuses on technological innovation. British companies are developing advanced monolithic refractories and customized solutions that address specific industrial challenges. The focus on energy efficiency and operational excellence drives demand for next-generation refractory materials.
Demand for refractories in the USA is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7%, supported by advanced manufacturing capabilities and focus on high-performance materials for specialized applications. American manufacturers focuses on quality, reliability, and technical support in delivering refractory solutions to diverse industrial sectors. The market is characterized by demand for innovative products that enhance operational efficiency and reduce maintenance requirements.
Revenue from refractories in Brazil is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% through 2035, supported by the country's expanding industrial base and natural resource processing capabilities. Brazilian industries, particularly steel and mining sectors, create substantial demand for refractory materials. The focus on value-added manufacturing and industrial modernization drives adoption of advanced refractory solutions.
The market is characterized by competition among global leaders, regional specialists, and emerging manufacturers. Companies are investing in advanced manufacturing technologies, research and development, and customer service capabilities to deliver high-performance, reliable, and cost-effective refractory solutions. Product innovation, technical expertise, and service quality are central to strengthening market position and customer relationships.
RHI MAGNESITA, Austria-based, leads the market with 9% global value share, offering comprehensive refractory solutions with focus on innovation. Chosun Refractories Co., Ltd., South Korea, provides specialized refractory products for steel and petrochemical industries. CoorsTek Inc., USA, delivers advanced technical ceramics and engineered refractory solutions. HarbisonWalker International, USA, focuses on monolithic and precast refractory products for various industrial applications.
Imerys, France, specializes in mineral-based specialty solutions including high-performance refractories. Krosaki Harima, Japan, offers innovative refractory materials with focus on environmental protection. Morgan Advanced Materials, UK, provides engineered ceramic and carbon materials for extreme environments. Saint-Gobain, France, delivers comprehensive refractory solutions across multiple industrial sectors. SEFPRO, France, specializes in glass furnace refractories. Shinagawa Refractories, Japan, and Vesuvius, UK, provide specialized refractory products and services for steel and foundry industries.
| Items | Values |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Units (2025) | USD 49.5 billion |
| End Use | Iron & Steel, Cement & Lime, Glass & Ceramics, Non-Ferrous Metals, Others |
| Regions Covered | North America, Europe, East Asia, South Asia & Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa |
| Countries Covered | United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, France, China, Japan, South Korea, India, Brazil, Australia and 40+ countries |
| Key Companies Profiled | RHI MAGNESITA, Chosun Refractories Co., Ltd., CoorsTek Inc., HarbisonWalker International, Imerys, Krosaki Harima, Morgan Advanced Materials, Saint-Gobain, SEFPRO, Shinagawa Refractories, and Vesuvius |
| Additional Attributes | Dollar sales by material type and application, regional demand trends, competitive landscape, buyer preferences for monolithic versus shaped refractories, integration with Industry 4.0 technologies, innovations in nanotechnology and recycling initiatives. |
End Use:
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The global refractories market is estimated to be valued at USD 49.5 billion in 2025.
The market size for the refractories market is projected to reach USD 118.2 billion by 2035.
The refractories market is expected to grow at a 9.1% CAGR between 2025 and 2035.
The key product types in refractories market are iron & steel, cement & lime, glass & ceramics, non-ferrous metals and others.
In terms of , segment to command 0.0% share in the refractories market in 2025.
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