Pilot presentations propel eLITHE’s journey toward electrifying the ceramic industry
The eLITHE consortium gathered in Porto, Portugal, for the 1st General Assembly Meeting. Hosted by SGS Portugal, it brought together project partners to review progress, discuss ongoing work packages and align on the next steps for the electrification of high-temperature heating equipment in the ceramic industry.
The event took place on March 11-12, 2025, and featured presentations covering project management, baseline research, digitalization tools, and technology development for electrification. Each partner provided updates on their contributions, including the rollout of sensor infrastructure, digital twin integration, and new material developments for electric frit melting.
During the pilot presentation session, partners introduced the different demonstrators and technologies being developed within eLITHE. Carlos Concepción (TCID) presented TORRECID Group and its role in the frit smelter process at the pilot site. Thimis Balomenos (MYTILINEOS) introduced the primary aluminium production and alumina calcination process, requiring electrical burners and a microwave heating kiln. Angel Lopez (INCEINNMAT) showcased the microwave calciner for alumina (cold kiln). Lastly, Rigo Giese (IZF) discussed the hybrid kiln demonstrator, which aims to decarbonize process heat by integrating electrification, natural gas, and green hydrogen to achieve CO₂ neutrality.
Partners also engaged in an Exploitation Workshop deliver by ICONS to identify key exploitable results.