Metals make automobiles, machinery, planes, buildings, and thousands of other useful things possible. Refractory ceramics are enabling materials for other industries as well. The chemical, petroleum, energy conversion, glass and other ceramic industries all rely on refractory materials. Much of the construction industry depends on the use of ceramic materials. This includes brick, cement, tile, and glass.
Cement is used to make concrete which in turn is used for roadways, dams, buildings, and bridges.
Uses of glass in the construction industry include various types of windows, glass block, and fibres for use in insulation, ceiling panels and roofing tiles. Brick is used for homes and commercial buildings because of its strength, durability, and beauty. Brick is the only building product that will not burn, melt, dent, peel, warp, rot, rust or be eaten by termites. Tile is used in applications such as flooring, walls, countertops, and fireplaces. Tile is also a very durable and hygienic construction product that adds beauty to any application.