R&D Processes and Products

From its very outset, the Marazzi Group has always allocated major resources to its R&D operations. The technological advances that have derived from Marazzi's research have also become fundamental milestones in the growth and development of the entire ceramics industry.

1974 - Rapid single-firing
In 1974, Marazzi developed and patented the rapid single-firing process for clay tile bodies, a production process later adopted around the world.
Innovations and improvements in the Italian ceramics industry "led to a breakthrough in 1972-73 with the introduction of the rapid single-firing process by Marazzi [...] Marazzi, in conjunction with the Italian equipment manufacturer SITI, developed roller kilns that eliminated the need for the refractory carriages that carried tiles through the kiln" (M. Porter –The Competitive Advantage of Nations).
Rapid single-firing truly revolutionized the production process, combining the two stages of the production cycle at the technological level, eliminating one stage of firing and considerably reducing the cycle time, which dropped from 24 hours to 40 minutes.
The single-firing process also drastically reduced energy consumption and improved productivity. It also facilitated expansion of the product range, introducing technical and functional characteristics that extended the field of application for ceramics products.



1979 - Large sizes
In 1979, Marazzi presented its first 60x60 cm single-fired tile, beginning the era of larger tile sizes.



Marazzi ad campaign for its 60x60 cm tile - late 1970s.

1985 - Firestream glazing
In 1985, the company patented the Firestream process of glazing on an incandescent body. The result of this process is Enduro, a material with a thick, even layer of vitreous ceramic glaze made up of tiny crystals, creating a very durable surface that is resistant to chemicals and extremely dense. These characteristics make Enduro perfect for large-scale non-residential construction projects: shopping centres, schools, hospitals, churches, theatres, restaurants, fast-food venues, hotels, car showrooms, and shops.



Firestream technology.

In the years to follow, the Marazzi Group has continued to expand its research activities, which have led to the registration of many Italian and international patents related to ceramic tiles and bathroom fixtures, ventilated wall components, and ceramic tile presses with an improved loading mechanism.



Ventilated wall for the Palace of Justice, Ostrava, Czech Republic. Project managers: Miroslav Chabot and Czeslaw Mendrek.