Abstract: A process for producing a refractory material for use in the superstructure of glass melting tanks contains, as main components, SiO2, SiC and a binder or binder mixture. A particulate substance, which in the spectral range from 1 ?m to 5 ?m and at temperatures above 1000° C. has a spectral emission capability which is higher than the spectral emission capability of the matrix of the refractory material, is incorporated into the matrix of the refractory material. A method of increasing the spectral emissivity of shaped, fired, refractory materials, is also provided.