The glass industry needs a step-change in technology if it is to achieve net-zero. This involves high risk R&D at a large/industrially-relevant scale. Glass Futures is a not-for-profit research organisation, built by its members from across the global glass industry to do exactly this, at a Centre of Excellence being built in St Helens, UK. The remit of the organisation is to enable its members from across the glass supply chain and beyond to collaborate in areas which affect all parties, with a particular focus on decarbonisation of the glass-making process and its upstream and downstream activities.
At the heart of the new Glass Futures’ facility is a 30 tonnes/day pilot-scale glass furnace, due to be commissioned in spring 2025. The facility has been designed to enable the industry to develop and trial new technologies at an industrially relevant scale, without risk to their commercial manufacturing assets, thus providing increased confidence for manufacturers looking to invest in low-carbon technologies such as alternative fuels, CCUS technologies and new raw materials. As well as being capable of developing and proving technology, the facility allows global glass industry partners to benefit from extensive training opportunities.
In this presentation, the authors will provide an overview of the new Glass Futures facility and the initial programme of pilot-scale trials focusing around low-carbon energy sources (biofuels, electric boost, hydrogen) will be highlighted. In addition, some of the key research work conducted by Glass Futures and partners in this area will be discussed.
Glass Futures
Dr Habib Khosroshahi is the Industrial Fuel Switching (IFS) Programme Manager and Innovation Projects Team Manager at research and technology membership organisation Glass Futures, leading innovative projects focused on decarbonising the glass and ceramics industries. With extensive experience in directing and managing R&D and special projects, Habib plays a key role in driving the transition to low-carbon fuels, including biofuels, hydrogen, and electrification. Collaborating closely with industry partners, government bodies, and research institutions, they ensure the successful execution of large-scale industrial trials, contributing to the UK's net zero ambitions. Passionate about sustainability and innovation Habib is committed to developing practical, economically viable pathways for reducing industrial carbon emissions.
JOIN OUR MAILING LIST
Be the first to hear about exhibitors, speakers and what's on at our upcoming events.
