Unlocking Circular Potential: Highlights from ReSoURCE’s Latest Webinar

On June 26, 2025 the webinar titled “Unlocking Circular Potential: Refractory Fillers in Advanced Composites” was organized by the ReSoURCE project in collaboration with RHI Magnesita, CPI, and Crowdhelix. Materials scientists, business representatives, and innovators convened virtually to talk about how recycled refractory materials might provide high-performance, environmentally friendly solutions for the composites industry.  

Alexander Leitner, ReSoURCE Project Coordinator at RHI Magnesita, opened the webinar by outlining the goal of the project and described how the project is using automated, sensor-based sorting technologies that integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI), Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI), and Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) to address the challenges associated with recycling refractory. 

The technological development of the project’s two recycled filler products, mRefCem and mRefFerro, was thoroughly examined by Ananda Roy, Yugal Rai, and Jack Maxfield from CPI. They shared information on the products’ physical characteristics, processing techniques, and performance in various applications. Part of the conversation was mediated by Claire Defty (CPI), who also pointed out possible avenues for industry adoption. The Circular Industry Helix, a platform created to link researchers, businesses, and innovators interested in using these materials at scale, was presented by the last speaker, Cais Jurgens from Crowdhelix. 

CPI Team presented the material passports (mRefCem and mRefFerro) encompassing particle size distributions, densities, thermal and dielectric properties, and thermogravimetric profiles. In order to increase compatibility with different polymer systems, they also talked about surface modification techniques that use silanes (GLYMO, APTES). 

The results of application testing were impressive: Epoxy composites improve fire resistance by reducing peak heat release and extending ignite periods in comparison to unfilled resin. Thermoplastic composites: mRefFerro provided remarkable stiffness and thermal stability in virgin HDPE, PP, and recycled PP, while mRefCem provided a well-balanced combination of strength and flexibility. Both performed on par with or better than conventional CaCO3 fillers. Better print quality, adhesion, and dispersibility are achieved with dielectric inks, opening the door for environmentally friendly printed electronics applications. 

Impact on the Environment and the Market 

About 1.5 tons of CO₂ can be saved per tonne of recycled refractories when they are used instead of virgin raw materials. Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) are being used by industry partners to quantify these savings and show consumers the environmental benefits. 

It can be concluded from the webinar that the ReSoURCE Project’s strategy is progressing from concept to solutions that are ready for the market. The research is proving that recycled refractories may perform better than traditional fillers in terms of sustainability and performance parameters, as the mobile, AI-driven LIBS/HSI sorting system approaches maturity and shows promising application results in thermosets, thermoplastics, and dielectric inks.  

During the Q&A, industry participants expressed interest in supply-chain integration and pilot trials, especially in the electronics, automotive, and construction sectors. In order to speed up industrial adoption, the following phase will concentrate on finalizing LCAs and EPDs, scaling manufacturing, and strengthening cooperation through the Circular Industry Helix. 

Next Steps 

The main takeaway of the event was a noticeable change in viewpoint: spent refractories should be seen as a valuable secondary resource with substantial commercial and environmental potential rather than as an expensive industrial waste stream that is headed for landfills. These materials can be converted into high-performance fillers that meet or surpass the technical requirements of virgin alternatives by implementing sophisticated, mobile sorting systems that integrate LIBS, HSI, and AI, along with focused material processing and application-specific development. In addition to lowering dependency on basic raw materials and related CO₂ emissions, this creates prospects for their application in a variety of industries, including infrastructure, automotive, electronics, and sustainable manufacturing.  In addition, Cais Jurgens from Crowdhelix concluded by inviting participants to become a part of the Circular Industry Helix and take part in co-development projects; The platform allows businesses, researchers, and innovators to explore collaborative research projects, pilot studies, and co-development projects that expedite the use of recycled refractories and integrate the concepts of the circular economy into industrial supply chains. 

If you are interested in learning more, watch the webinar recording available in our YouTube channel:

Webinar Recording: Unlocking Circular Potential: Refractory Fillers in advanced Composites

The 17th International Conference on Materials Chemistry (MC17) took place from 7th to 10th July 2025 in the historic city of Edinburgh, UK. Hosted at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC), just a 15-minute walk from the iconic Edinburgh Castle.

This year’s edition marked a milestone for the MC series: it was the largest conference to date, boasting a record number of abstract submissions and welcoming over 600 delegates from across academia, industry, and research institutions. The scientific programme was structured around four core themes:

1. Functional inorganic materials
2. Nano and porous materials
3. Soft matter and biomaterials
4. Materials for energy and sustainability—including recycling, and critical materials usage.

Each theme was supported by a range of oral presentations and poster sessions.

Some of the talks I particularly enjoyed included:

• Recycling of battery materials using bioengineering
• Using machine learning to aid and complement classical materials discovery and optimization techniques
• Using X-ray diffraction computed tomography (XRDCT) to assess CO2 conversion and hydrogen production catalysts

The evening poster sessions were a particular highlight. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged great discussion and offered a platform to share ideas and receive feedback. Discussing my work with fellow researchers and experts provided valuable insights and fresh perspectives. The posters featured a diverse range of topics. I was particularly drawn to several posters focusing on sustainable materials, which included:

• Development of recyclable, biodegradable, and bio-renewable polymers
• Lignin valorisation for use in batteries, supercapacitors, adhesives, and epoxy systems
• Research into low-carbon, alkali-activated cements as alternatives to traditional Portland cement

These contributions demonstrated the growing momentum behind environmentally responsible materials chemistry.

I had the opportunity to present my own research within the materials for energy and sustainability theme. My poster focused on the valorisation of end-of-life refractories as functional fillers, exploring the potential of two materials—mRefCem and mRefFerro. These materials, fully characterised in our materials passports, show promise as fillers in thermoset and thermoplastic systems, contributing to the circular economy.

Overall, MC17 was a thoroughly rewarding experience. The conference reinforced the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and sustainable innovation in materials chemistry. I’m already looking forward to the next edition!

Established in 1985, Norsk Elektro Optikk (NEO) is Norway’s largest independent research and development organization in the field of electro optics. Founded by scientists from the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, NEO has grown into a globally recognized manufacturer of advanced electro-optical products. The company’s mission encompasses developing, manufacturing, and marketing electro-optical products based on in-house technology, as well as participating in research-oriented projects in collaboration with larger companies or research organizations where applications of electro-optical methods are essential.

NEO’s headquarters, laboratories, and production facilities are in a modern multi-purpose building in Bryn, near the center of Oslo. The company employs more than 60 people, over 70% of whom hold advanced degrees in physics or electronics. Their expertise spans electro-optical systems design, optical design, software development, mechanical design, diode laser technology, detector technology (IR and visual), spectroscopy, mathematical modeling, electronic design (hardware and software), and signal and image processing.

NEO’s product portfolio includes the HySpex line of hyperspectral imaging systems, which are renowned for their stability, flexibility, and superior data quality. These systems are utilized in various applications, including environmental monitoring, defense, and industrial inspection.

Role in the ReSoURCE Project

Within the ReSoURCE project, NEO contributes its expertise in hyperspectral imaging through its HySpex division. NEO’s primary responsibility involves delivering spatially and spectrally resolved data of materials on conveyor belts. This data serves as input for material classification and, in conjunction with 3D geometry sensor data, aids in the preselection of regions of interest (ROI) for controlling the LIBS (Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) beam guiding system.

NEO’s involvement in the ReSoURCE project exemplifies its commitment to applying advanced electro-optical technologies to address industrial challenges, particularly in the realm of sustainable resource utilization and recycling.

For more information about NEO and its contributions to the ReSoURCE project, please visit their official website.

Climate change and its consequences are becoming more evident every day. If we want to shape a more sustainable and just future, we need smart minds who are not only aware of the challenges but also equipped to tackle them. That journey begins with our children and teenagers, who are already learning in school about climate-damaging behaviours and how to avoid them.

Supporting this mission, the European Union funds various initiatives focused on climate education. One of them is the Ecoality Project, which aims to empower young people with the skills and knowledge needed to address climate change and gender justice. As part of this initiative, Südwind Austria organized a School Climate Camp from June 13 to 17, bringing together 20 students for an inspiring and educational experience.

We at the Chair of Waste Processing Technology and Waste Management (AVAW) at Montanuniversität Leoben (MUL) were honoured to contribute to one full day of the program.

A Day with AVAW: From Understanding to Action

After a relaxed Sunday breakfast, the students were divided into four groups of five and introduced to the Climate Fresk – a collaborative workshop tool that visualises the causes and effects of climate change. The theme of the day was “From Head to Heart to Action”.

Through the Climate Fresk, the teenagers explored the science behind climate change and the consequences that await us if we fail to act. This was followed by a reflective session where students, in pairs, processed what they had learned and shared their emotional responses. The goal was to help them connect intellectually and emotionally with the topic – a vital step before taking meaningful action.

We then opened up a group discussion about what everybody of us can contribute to climate solutions. During this exchange, we also introduced our department at MUL and explained how future studies or careers in environmental and energy engineering can play a powerful role in fighting climate change.

Real Solutions in Action: ReSoURCE & MoLIBity

As part of our presentation, we showcased two of our key research projects:

• ReSoURCE
• MoLIBity, a project dedicated to developing efficient recycling processes for lithium-ion batteries from mobility applications. MoLIBity is led within our department by Fr. DI Cornelia Rutkowski. 

Looking Ahead

We’re incredibly grateful to have been part of this fantastic Climate Camp experience. It was a real pleasure to engage with such thoughtful, curious, and motivated young people. The day was filled with insightful conversations, shared ideas, and moments of inspiration.

We look forward to possibly welcoming some of the participants to our university in the future – as students, researchers, or changemakers in the fight against climate change.

Every year, millions of tonnes of high-performance materials—refractories—are used in industries like steelmaking, cement production, and glass manufacturing. These materials withstand extreme heat and stress, lining furnaces, kilns, and reactors to keep industrial processes running. But what happens after they’ve done their job? 

Too often, spent refractories end up in landfills or downcycling applications. That’s not only wasteful, it’s a missed opportunity. Many of these materials still have valuable properties and can be recycled, —if we can sort and process them effectively. That’s where new technology is stepping in. 

Figure 1. Overview of manual recycling processing steps.

From Manual to Machine: A Recycling Revolution 

Until recently, sorting used refractory bricks was a manual process. Workers can only handle large chunks (over 80 mm), and decisions are mainly based on visual inspection. It works, but is lacking in efficiency especially in a world where circularity and carbon reduction are urgent goals which need to be achieved quickly. 

Now, a new generation of automated sensor-based sorting systems is up to make a big difference. These high-tech machines will handle much smaller particles (as small as 5 mm), sort them faster, and—most importantly—analyze their chemical composition in real time. 

Using tools like Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI), these systems  analyze each piece of material for its chemical and mineral content. That means recyclers can identify exactly what each particle is made of and separate it accordingly—resulting in higher-quality recycled materials. 

A Game-Changer for Circularity 

Why does this matter? Because better sorting means better recycling. When materials are accurately identified and separated, they can be reused in new refractory products without compromising performance. That reduces demand for virgin raw materials, saves energy, cuts carbon emissions, and keeps valuable resources in use. 

RHI Magnesita, one of the world’s leading refractory producers, is pioneering this approach with support from the ReSoURCE project. Together with industry and research partners, the company is developing mobile sorting units—container-sized systems that can be deployed directly at customer sites. These units can process a couple of tonnes  of used refractories per hour, making recycling more convenient, more economical, and more sustainable. 

Building the Future, Brick by Brick 

This kind of innovation is essential if we’re serious about creating a circular economy. By combining cutting-edge science with practical engineering, the refractory industry is rethinking waste—and finding new value in old materials. 

At ReSoURCE, we believe that progress like this doesn’t just benefit industry —it benefits all of us. A smarter recycling system means a healthier planet, a more resilient supply chain, and a more responsible approach to the materials we depend on every day. 

If you’re interested in the technical foundations behind this approach, you can read the full article published in RHI Magnesita’s Bulletin 2024 here. 

2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the foundation of InnoLas Laser GmbH. Since 1995, the development and manufacturing of highest quality laser sources for scientific and industrial applications made in Germany is the main drive of the company. Through the knowledge and teamwork of the employees, the laser systems produced are customized to the customer’s wishes. Within the first 20 years, the company grew and built laser systems for numerous different applications. For a better separation of the products, the company was split into several companies, each specializing in a different field. At InnoLas Laser, laser sources for scientific applications are the main focus.

InnoLas Laser produces flash lamp and diode pumped laser systems with pulse lengths in the upper picosecond and nanosecond range with pulse energies at 1064nm of a few µJ at 100 kHz to over 7J at 3 Hz and wavelengths of 1064nm to higher harmonic generations as well as OPO capabilities. The products manufactured cover a wide range of specifications needed for the even wider range of application possibilities such as Lidar, Ti-Sa pumping, Thomson scattering, photoacoustic … and in the case of the ReSoURCE project for the recycling of refractive materials.

Furthermore, the availability of technicians and the lifelong support of the laser systems allow the customers to maintain and if needed upgrade their laser systems over the years as specification changes appear in their applications.

InnoLas Laser, with the desire for development of new fields of application, participates in numerous projects in cooperation with international partners. In the case of the ReSoURCE project, to be able to obtain the desired LIBS analysis for sorting of the refractive material, specific changes in the emission output were needed. Through software, hardware and optical optimization the laser system was developed to reach the needed specification.

The headquarter of InnoLas Laser GmbH is located in Krailling near Munich, Germany. The in-house development of the components as well as a tight connection between all departments allows for a smooth planning and manufacturing of the laser systems according to the required specifications.

In 2022, InnoLas Laser GmbH opened another branch office and production facility in Windorf near Passau, Germany. The site was built according to the latest environmental standards and uses geothermal energy for heating and air conditioning. In addition, a high-performance photovoltaic system on the roof ensures a sustainable power supply for the building and the charging of company vehicles.

As founder Reinhard Kelnberger said: “For us a very pleasant working atmosphere is one very important pre-condition for such a well-coordinated and successful development. We are looking forward to more sustainable growth of our company, many new and old satisfied customers, new challenges and especially to improving our products for our costumer’s benefit!”

From 9–12 June 2025, the International Conference on Solid Waste 2025 (ICSWDG2025) has taken place. Hosted by Dongguan University of Technology, Zhejiang University, and the International Waste Working Group (IWWG), the gathering centered around “Waste Management for Carbon Neutrality and Circular Economy”.

The adoption of circular and green economy practices is essential for reducing environmental pollution and mitigating climate change. Despite this, the global economy remains only 7.2% circular, according to the 2024 Circularity Gap Report, highlighting a vast opportunity for progress. ICSWDG2025 offerd a vital platform for scientists, researchers, regional policymakers, and industry professionals to share insights on sustainable waste management, technology, and environmental challenges.

The ReSoURCE project was also presented at ICSWDG2025, contributing to the broader discussion on waste management. The presentation highlighted the project’s overarching objectives, emphasizing its focus on addressing a particularly significant and valuable waste stream within the broader context of sustainable resource management. Key findings from the analysis of the European waste management systems were shared. It concluded with the introduction of a GIS-based map, designed to improve data visualization and decision-making in waste management regarding spent refractories.

Personal notes: It was truly a wonderful and educational experience to participate in an international conference in China. A heartfelt thank you to Prof. Jonathan Wong for warmly welcoming the Austrian participants and taking such excellent care of us. Sincere thanks also to the organizing team for putting together such a well-organized event.

Three years into the ReSoURCE project, our latest consortium meeting marked a significant milestone: Month 36. This time, we were warmly hosted by CPI at their facilities in the northeast of England, near Newcastle. Upon arrival, CPI colleagues offered a guided tour of their state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities. Their well-equipped infrastructure provided valuable insight into the technical capacity and innovation potential that CPI brings to the project.

The first day also included smaller group meetings where partners aligned on the progress of various work packages and discussed next steps. The second day was dedicated to a full consortium meeting. With a packed agenda, we reviewed project management updates and heard presentations from all Work Package leaders. These updates focused on both recent progress and the key activities planned for the final phase of the project.

A central focus of the meeting was the discussion around the project’s key exploitable results. Partners engaged in defining which results offer the most relevance and potential impact, as well as how best to maximise their uptake and long-term value. Follow-up meetings are planned to continue aligning on these outcomes, which will be shared in more detail at the ReSoURCE final event. In the evening, the consortium came together for a group dinner—an opportunity to reconnect and strengthen collaboration in a more informal setting.

Before heading home on the third day, we visited the Port of Sunderland. This site stands out for its growing circularity hub, which has spurred the development of a regional industrial cluster. The port plays a vital role in handling commodities such as pulp and general cargo, serving as an intermodal logistics hub with rail connectivity. It also contributes significantly to the local economy.

Our tour, led by the port’s Commercial Manager, began with an overview of Sunderland’s maritime heritage. Once a hub for shipbuilding, the port is now repositioning itself as a centre for green industrial innovation on the northeast coast of England. The circularity hub at the port illustrates the real-world application of circular economy principles and supports broader goals for regional regeneration and decarbonisation. The visit was a compelling example of how industrial reuse and environmental innovation can intersect.

Overall, the M36 gathering was an opportunity to reflect on our journey so far, align on priorities, and reinforce the spirit of collaboration that underpins ReSoURCE. A sincere thank you to our colleagues at CPI for their excellent organisation and hospitality—we truly appreciated the warm welcome and thoughtful planning.

We’re proud of the strong consortium we’ve built and look forward to sharing the outcomes of our work at the ReSoURCE final event. Stay tuned!

Montanuniversität Leoben, Austria’s leading university for mining, metallurgy, and materials science, has been at the forefront of resource-focused research and education for over 180 years.

Founded in 1840 in Vordernberg as the “Steiermärkisch-Ständische Montanlehranstalt” under the patronage of Archduke Johann of Austria, the institution began its journey under the leadership of metallurgist Peter Tunner. In 1849, it relocated to Leoben, where it gradually evolved into a cornerstone of Austria’s academic landscape. By 1904, the school gained university status as the “Montanistische Hochschule,” granting it the authority to award doctoral degrees and expanding its scientific and research influence.

Throughout the 20th century, Montanuniversität Leoben expanded its academic offerings beyond traditional mining and metallurgy to include fields such as materials science, petroleum engineering, and environmental technology. The 1975 University Organisation Act marked another milestone, officially renaming it Montanuniversität Leoben and solidifying its role within Austria’s higher education system.

Significant investments in infrastructure and innovation followed in the early 2000s, including the establishment of the Raw Materials Center (2006) and the Impulse Centre for Materials (2007). By the 2012/13 academic year, student enrolment had surpassed 3,000, reflecting its growing global reputation.

Today, Montanuniversität Leoben is internationally recognised as a centre of excellence for sustainable raw materials research. Its work spans the entire value chain—from extraction to recycling—with a strong focus on green technologies and circular design. As a proud member of TU Austria, the university plays a critical role in collaborative innovation at the European level.

Within the EU-funded ReSoURCE project, the Chair of Mineral Processing and the Chair of Waste Processing Technology and Waste Management are responsible for developing a comprehensive waste management concept. This includes the chemical and mineralogical characterisation of refractory waste materials, as well as the evaluation of feedstock properties to optimise pre-processing steps for automated sorting. Identifying the most suitable comminution technologies is also a key focus, serving as a foundation for efficient material separation and high-quality recycling outcomes.

The Chair of Mineral Processing at Montanuniversität Leoben focuses on the efficient recovery, separation, and processing of primary and secondary raw materials. Research and teaching emphasize mechanical, physical, and physico-chemical processing methods, particularly for metallic ores, industrial minerals, and recycling materials. Key areas include process and plant engineering, processing characterization, comminution, classification, flotation, magnetic separation, and electrostatic sorting. The chair develops sustainable and resource-efficient technologies along the entire value chain – from the deposit to a marketable product. In addition to laboratory and pilot-scale experiments, numerical simulation methods such as DEM and CFD can also be employed. Collaborations with industrial partners enable practice-oriented research and technology transfer. The aim is to develop viable solutions for environmentally responsible raw material processing and to support the transition to a circular economy.

The Chair of Waste Processing Technology and Waste Management at Montanuniversität Leoben is dedicated to sustainable resource utilisation, the development of innovative recycling technologies and environmental protection. Research priorities include the circular economy, recovery of valuable materials from waste, and the optimisation of waste management systems. The aim is to create ecological and economic solutions for global waste challenges. Through interdisciplinary approaches and close collaboration with industry partners, the chair contributes to a resource-efficient and environmentally friendly future. The chair can be further divided into four specialized working groups, each focusing on distinct topics: Methods and Environmental Analytics, Waste Processing Technology, Future Waste & Waste Management, and Environmental Remediation & Mineral Waste. For instance, the ReSoURCE project, which deals with the mineral composition of refractory materials, is part of the latter. Each group is engaged in national and international projects, providing students with hands-on education and access to cutting-edge research opportunities.

By combining a rich academic heritage with state-of-the-art research, Montanuniversität Leoben continues to lead efforts toward a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.

At the beginning of April, I had the pleasure of joining the Mineral Recycling Forum 2025 in beautiful Cannes, or more precisely, Mandelieu-La Napoule, where the industry met to talk shop about the challenges and opportunities in mineral recycling. And it was far from just another conference. 

Together with Lucas Zimmermann from MIRECO, I presented our joint talk “All About Sorting – The Future of Refractory Recycling.” We showed why advanced sorting technology is one of the key levers to unlock higher recycling rates and reduce dependency on primary raw materials and how it can be done in practice. 

It was a great opportunity to link our work with ReSoURCE. Presenting this European initiative in front of such a specialized industrial audience felt like an important step to build bridges between innovation, operational reality, and sustainability. 

Great Exchange, Great People 

What stood out for me? Definitely the quality of discussions and the open, constructive exchange. It’s good to see that in our rather traditional industry, there’s growing momentum around digitalization, circularity, and smarter use of secondary raw materials. Events like this bring together the right people, researchers, plant managers, commercial experts, young professionals, and the mix of perspectives really adds value. 

The presentations covered a wide range of topics: from refractory recovery and XRF-based technologies to recycling glass, and strategies to improve raw material circularity. There was a clear red thread throughout: collaboration and innovation are key if we want to scale industrial recycling and move toward a more sustainable raw material supply. 

It was also encouraging to see that sorting is increasingly seen as a strategic tool, not just a technical detail. That’s exactly the kind of thinking we need to accelerate change. And it validated the direction we’ve taken with MIRECO and our work on ReSoURCE. 

A Quick Thought on Why These Events Matter 

Cannes reminded me again how important it is to step out of your day-to-day projects. To listen, to challenge your ideas, and to connect with others who are working on similar issues from different angles. Forums like this give our industry the pulse check it needs and help align around common goals like CO₂ reduction, resource efficiency, and technological progress. 

Thanks to the Organizers

Last but not least: a big thank you to Mike O’Driscoll and the IMFORMED team for the professional and smooth organization. You can tell when an event is made by people who know the industry from the inside and who care. 

Looking forward to continuing the conversations and to seeing where this growing network leads us next.