We’re compiling information for a refractories roundtable article, and it would be great to get some participation from our online community. I’ve listed a series of questions below. Please provide answers by adding a comment, or feel free to email your answers to me at suttons@bnpmedia.com. I’m looking forward to your insights, and thank you for participating!

1. Is the refractories industry benefiting or suffering from the increasingly global economy?

2. What does the employment picture look like in the refractories industry?

3. How is the availability of raw materials currently affecting the refractories industry?

4. What has been the most significant technological advancement for the refractories industry in the last several years?

5. If you look into a crystal ball, what do you see in the refractories industry’s future?