The visit of a project delegation to Ceramics China provided an opportunity to explore innovative solutions that could contribute to reducing energy consumption and environmental impacts across the ceramic tile industry.
From 18 to 22 June 2026, representatives of the INNOVATILE project attended Ceramics China, held in Guangzhou, China, one of the world’s leading trade fairs for ceramic manufacturing technologies, equipment and raw materials. The visit provided an opportunity to explore innovative solutions that could contribute to reducing energy consumption and environmental impacts across the ceramic tile industry.
The delegation explored a range of innovative technologies specially designed to improve energy efficiency throughout the tile production process. These solutions aim to optimize the use of thermal energy, reduce resource consumption and enhance the overall sustainability of ceramic manufacturing plants. During the fair, project partners also identified several emerging technologies that may contribute to the long-term decarbonization of ceramic production. Among them, electric kiln solutions attracted particular attention due to their potential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels in energy-intensive manufacturing processes by replacing current natural gas fueled kilns.
While the development and validation of electric kilns is not a direct objective of the INNOVATILE project, these technologies are highly relevant to the broader discussions on industrial decarbonization that will be promoted through the future HypocarbonTileTech network and platform. The platform, currently being developed within the project, aims to bring together manufacturers, technology providers, researchers and policymakers to exchange knowledge and explore innovative solutions related to energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, circular economy approaches and low-carbon manufacturing pathways for the ceramic sector.
The knowledge collected during the visit will now be assessed by the project consortium to evaluate how these technological developments may complement the research and innovation activities currently being carried out within INNOVATILE. The project is focused on the development and demonstration of an innovative semi-wet granulation technology for porcelain tile manufacturing that aims to significantly reduce energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, raw material use and water demand, while facilitating the incorporation of secondary and alternative raw materials into the production process.
Beyond the technologies showcased during the exhibition, participation in international events such as CERAMICS CHINA allows the partners of INNOVATILE to stay connected with the latest global developments in sustainable manufacturing. By identifying innovative solutions, exchanging knowledge with international stakeholders and strengthening future collaboration opportunities, the project continues to support its broader mission of accelerating the transition towards a more competitive, resource-efficient and climate-friendly ceramic industry across the Mediterranean region.
Last Update
25/09/2026
Next Med