Hidden in Plain Sight - Part One
Last month, we launched our campaign to spotlight the vital role of ceramics in our everyday lives.
At Ceramics UK, we are dedicated to showcasing the surprising and often overlooked ways ceramics shape our world. From the tiles on our roofs to the components in our smartphones, ceramics are essential materials that transform industries, power technology, and help us stay connected. Through this campaign, we aim to educate and highlight the critical contributions of the ceramics sector.
Imagine a world without ceramics: no clean water, no safe travel, no smartphones. Simply put, life without ceramics would be dull, difficult, and in many ways impossible. Let’s dive into a few fascinating areas where ceramics play a quiet but powerful role.
Ceramics in Refractories: Standing Strong Against the Heat
When industries face extreme temperatures - think steelmaking, glass production, or energy plants - they rely on ceramics. Refractories, a special class of ceramics, are engineered to withstand searing heat without breaking down.
Why it matters: Without refractories, furnaces, kilns, and reactors would literally collapse under the pressure.
Where you’ll find them: In the linings of industrial equipment, insulating walls, and even in processes that help create the metals and materials we use every day.
Ceramics here aren’t just functional - they’re keeping vital industries running safely and efficiently.
Ceramics in Schools: More Than Art Class
When we think of ceramics in schools, clay modelling in art class may be the first image that comes to mind. But ceramics reach much further into education.
Science Labs: Ceramic materials make up lab equipment that resists chemical corrosion and heat.
Everyday Tools: Whiteboards, tiles, and even some classroom flooring use ceramics for durability.
Technology in Learning: From the chips in laptops and tablets to the components in interactive whiteboards, ceramics are quietly supporting modern classrooms.
Ceramics in Transportation: Driving Progress Forward
From the cars we drive to the planes we board, ceramics are key players in transportation.
Automotive Brakes: Advanced ceramic brake pads offer durability, safety, and performance.
Aerospace: Jet turbine blades reinforced with ceramic coatings can handle the intense heat of flight.
Sustainability: Lightweight ceramic components are helping improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
Ceramics make travel not only safer and smoother but also more sustainable - a vital step toward greener transportation.
Why Ceramics Deserve the Spotlight
From the factory floor to the school classroom, and long-haul flights - ceramics are everywhere. Yet they remain largely invisible, hidden in plain sight. At Ceramics UK, we believe it’s time they get the recognition they deserve.
Over the coming months, we’ll continue uncovering the fascinating, unexpected ways ceramics shape our world.
Posted: 18th September 2025