Industrial finishing encompasses coatings applied to decorate and protect metal or plastic surfaces using a variety of methods. The applications involve catalytic and electrolytic deposition using rack, barrel, and reel-to-reel methods. End markets include automotive, aerospace, industrial equipment, machine tooling, consumer and durable goods.

Surfaces need to be properly prepared so that the finishes will adhere well and serve their intended function throughout the lifetime of the part. Surface treatments should be optimized for the condition of the part being coated, the coating material, and expected environmental exposure.

Industrial finishes, products and processes must comply with regulations, such as Reach. The list of substances and applications impacted extends across most finishing markets and applications, with new substances being added routinely.