Critical raw materials in the global high-throughput ceramic industry

The high-throughput ceramic industry is exposed, at the global level, to the risk of shortage and/or sudden price growth of raw materials, particularly Critical Raw Materials (CRMs). The goal of the present study is to overview the dependence on CRMs of a sector transforming a large amount of mineral resources, i.e. the ceramic manufacturing and its supply chain (wall and floor tiles, sanitaryware and tableware, frits and glazes, pigments and inks, and so on). For this purpose, a critical assessment with expert consultation was carried out to quantify demand, uses, recycling and possible substitutes of CRMs. Such data allowed assessing the risk exposure for the ceramic industry at the global level, at the light of expected trends in production and demand for every CRM. The various subsectors into which the high-throughput ceramic industry is divided are exposed differently to supply risk. The production of inks, pigments, dyes and effects for ceramic decoration is mainly exposed to supply risk, and similarly that of frits, glazes and grinding media. End-users of these materials (in particular tile manufacturers) are equally exposed to risk, albeit indirectly. However, the direct use of CRMs in ceramic bodies occurs massively only for feldspar (in different percentages in wall and floor tiles, sanitaryware, and tableware). Other subsectors (silicate refractories and insulators, clay bricks and roof tiles, machinery components, etc.) do not make use of or only make occasional use of certain CRMs. The ceramic industry must implement actions to mitigate the different degrees of supply risk to which the CRM is exposed. The extreme risk (Cobalt and Praseodymium) makes it necessary to search for substitutes and technological solutions to reduce CRM consumption. These actions are also recommended in the case of high risk (Antimony and Lithium). The recommended actions to mitigate moderate risk (Barium, Bismuth, Borates, Feldspar, Tungsten, Vanadium and Yttrium) consist mainly of strengthening the supply chain and improving resource efficiency. No action appears to be necessary for low risk (Cerium, Manganese, Phosphate and Platinum Group), while no risk has been found for Fluorine and Niobium. To ensure the access to CRMs without disruptions, it is appropriate to envisage a medium-long term strategy, involving the various players in the ceramic supply chain.