Iris Ceramica Group and Edison Next, presented the development of the world’s first 4D technical ceramic plate using a mixture of green hydrogen and natural gas. This slab measures 3.2 meters long by 1.6 meters wide, with a thickness of 12 mm, and stands out for incorporating a “fourth dimension” of sustainability to the conventional three dimensions of the material.
The first ceramic slab made with hydrogen
Production is carried out at the H2 Factory, a recently completed facility in Castellarano, equipped with advanced technology and prepared for hydrogen use. This development is an important step for the ceramics industry, a sector known for its intensive energy consumption.
According to Giovanni Brianza, CEO of Edison Next, this breakthrough is a step towards the goal of zero net emissions for the ceramics industry, revealing the importance of innovation and determination in overcoming challenges in difficult sectors. Brianza highlighted the pride of collaborating with a brand representative of“Made in Italy” in an initiative that boosts the sector, and promotes a new industrial culture focused on sustainability.
Federica Minozzi, CEO of Iris Ceramica Group, mentioned the importance of the project as a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainability. Minozzi emphasized that the current experimental process is crucial to optimize production before scaling up the use of green hydrogen to 50% in collaboration with Edison Next, highlighting the collaboration as a model of integrated sustainability.
In addition to the factory upgrades, significant preparations were made, including the installation of a blending system to combine natural gas with green hydrogen and the addition of a 1.3 MWp photovoltaic system to the existing 2.5 MWp.
The objectives of Iris Ceramica Group
The process at the H2 pilot plant began in May 2024, with two temporary electrolyzers producing green hydrogen from renewable energy, facilitating an initial blending of up to 7% hydrogen in the new furnace. This experimental phase ensures that the aesthetic and technical quality of the ceramics is not compromised while moving towards greener industrial production.
Edison Next will soon begin installation of a larger capacity electrolysis plant, with the goal of producing enough green hydrogen to increase the mix to 50%, thereby reducing CO2 emissions and moving towards a more sustainable future for the ceramics industry.
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Source and photo: Iris Ceramica Group
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