Ceramics must be positioned not only as a traditional cladding product, but as an advanced technological material capable of addressing high value-added industrial, architectural, energy, environmental and functional challenges.
This track must broaden the perspective on the role of ceramic materials in the future. The industry cannot limit itself to competing on price, format or aesthetics; it must move towards solutions with greater technological content, enhanced performance, new functionalities and applications capable of opening up more sophisticated markets.
One of the key areas of focus will be technical and functional ceramics. There are significant opportunities in high-performance materials with advanced mechanical, thermal, chemical, electrical and environmental properties. Ceramics can play an increasingly important role in sectors such as advanced construction, energy, the chemical industry, mobility, healthcare, electronics, filtration, surface protection and infrastructure.
The development of multifunctional surfaces must also be addressed: photocatalytic, antibacterial, self-cleaning, sensorised, active or capable of interacting with the environment. These solutions enable a shift from purely decorative ceramics to ceramics with added functionalities, improving the sector’s positioning in higher-value markets.
Industrialised construction represents another major opportunity. Integrated ceramic systems can play a key role in ventilated façades, high-performance building envelopes, modular solutions, hybrid systems and construction components focused on energy efficiency, durability and sustainability. Achieving this will require stronger integration between industry, architecture and engineering.
Advanced ceramic building envelopes should have a prominent place within this track. Ceramics offer strength, durability, thermal performance, colour stability, low maintenance and strong aesthetic potential. When properly integrated into construction systems, they can compete in high-level architectural projects and in sustainable building.
The integration of ceramics into digital building processes is another strategic area. The use of BIM, parametric design, customised manufacturing, energy modelling and digital specification tools can transform the relationship between manufacturers, architects, engineering firms, contractors and developers.
Design and architecture must be approached not as a purely aesthetic complement, but as drivers of industrial innovation. Design can enable new uses, new experiences, new construction solutions and new ways of competing internationally. Collaboration between ceramic companies, architecture studios, technology centres, universities and engineering firms will be essential to develop higher value-added products.
