The annual event is regarded as the largest gathering of the European refractories industry and an international meeting place for scientists, researchers, manufacturers, customers, users and suppliers across the sector. Last year, more than 700 participants attended ICR together with the accompanying trade fair, confirming its position as the leading annual event for the refractories industry.
The event is organised by an experienced team. The Scientific Committee is chaired by UNITECR Distinguished Life Member Prof. Dr. Olaf Krause (Hochschule Koblenz), alongside Dr. Patrick Gehre (TU Bergakademie Freiberg) and Dr. Thorsten Tonnesen (RWTH Aachen). On the industry side, Dr. Christian Dannert of Forschungsgemeinschaft Feuerfest e. V. is responsible for the organisation. Overall management of ICR lies with Thomas Kaczmarek, who together with Amelie Liebst also organises the accompanying trade fair, the Poster Award and the Women@Refractories initiative, in addition to the lecture programme.
Ticket sales have already started: discounted tickets are available via the ICR conference website until 15 July 2026.
Geopolitics takes centre stage in the keynote
In terms of content, ICR 2026 puts the economic framework conditions facing European industry at its core. One keynote will address the industry’s economic environment in Europe, geopolitical influences and related protective mechanisms, under the motto “Resilience vs. Protection.” According to the organisers, the keynote will be delivered by Ansgar Baums and Matthias Stalzer.
On Fire, Poster Award and Women@Refractories
The social programme also has plenty to offer: on the evening of the first conference day, the industry get-together “On Fire” will take place in the exhibition hall. Further highlights planned for 2026 include a poster session featuring a poster wall, SLAM format and award, along with a guided poster walk, the Women@Refractories initiative, a session on artificial intelligence in research and industry, a Business Forum, and the “Steel meets Refractory” industry dialogue. A university initiative offers free admission and dedicated exhibition space for students.
Sponsors and exhibitors
Several sponsors have already confirmed their support: Bosai Europe is sponsoring the lanyards, while refractories WORLDFORUM and Steuler are supporting the Poster Award. The list of exhibitors will be published shortly.
Further information and registration details are available here.
