Industrial coatings have an important role to play across industries. The use of coatings helps improve the durability and functionality of materials. Coatings also provide protection against corrosion and high temperatures. What specific characteristics of coatings contribute to these properties?
Well, this blog is your definitive answer for that. It covers the basics of industrial coatings and their various types. The blog also includes a list of major companies operating in the industrial coatings market. Let’s dive in!
Industrial coatings are specialized formulations. They are applied to surfaces to improve performance and provide added protection. Coatings can withstand harsh conditions and maintain their structural integrity at the same time.
The primary functions of industrial coatings include:
Polaris Market Research has done an in-depth assessment of the industrial coatings market. The market for these coatings stood at USD 92.74 billion in 2024. It is projected to account for a CAGR of 3.5% between 2025 and 2034.
The rising implementation of stringent environmental regulations globally has prompted industries to seek eco-friendly coatings and is driving market expansion. Growing investments by governments in infrastructure projects are also contributing to the industrial coatings market demand.
Here are some commonly used industrial coatings:
Epoxy Coatings: Epoxy coatings are durable protective substances. These coatings have high mechanical strength and adhesion to various surface types. They can also resist various types of chemicals. Epoxy coatings are used in various heavy-duty industries such as marine and industrial flooring.
Acrylic Coatings: Industrial coatings based on acrylic have quick drying times. The coatings are also helpful for the environment. They are commonly used in automotive and architectural applications.
Fluoropolymer Coatings: This industrial coating type is known for its high protection and durability for various substrates. They can also resist chemicals and withstand high temperatures. Fluoropolymers are widely used in the manufacturing of cookware.
Polyurethane (PU) Coatings: Polyurethane coatings involve the application of a polyurethane layer on the surface of a substrate. Coatings made from PU types in the polyurethane market are used to protect the surface or add another element to it.
Alkyd Coatings: Alkyd coatings make use of alkyd resin as the film-forming agent. These coatings provide excellent protection against wear and aging. Fatty acids can enhance the flexibility of alkyd coatings.
There are various companies operating in the industrial coatings market. Some of them include:
PPG Industries, Inc.
PPG Industries is a leading provider of industrial coatings. It was established in 1883 and has its headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Various industries worldwide use the company's high-performance solutions. PPG places a major emphasis on sustainability and offers coatings with a lower environmental impact. The company is operational in over 70 countries. It has manufacturing facilities and research centers located globally.
In May 2025, PPG Industries announced an investment for the establishment of a new aerospace coatings and sealants facility in Shelby, North Carolina. The company revealed that the new facility will produce its complete line of aerospace coatings and sealants.
AkzoNobel
AkzoNobel was originally a part of German chemical manufacturer Vereinigte Glanzstoff-Fabriken. It was later merged with other organizations. AkzoNobel’s portfolio includes various innovative coatings. Additionally, the company is committed to sustainability, and the same is evident in its products. Industrial coatings by AkzoNobel are used across various sectors.
The Sherwin-Williams Company
The Sherwin-Williams Company was established in 1886. Its headquarters are based in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. The company offers industrial coatings for various sectors. It is known for its water-based and low-VOC coatings. Sherwin-Williams has its stores and distribution centers located globally.
Axalta Coating Systems
Axalta Coating Systems is another major player in the coatings industry. It’s an established player whose roots go back to 1866. Axalta Coating Systems’ coatings are used for various applications across sectors such as automotive and refinish. The company makes use of advanced technologies to develop innovative coatings. Its coatings are lightweight and durable, making them suitable for energy-efficient applications.
BASF Coatings
BASF Coatings was established in 1888 and has its headquarters in Münster, Germany. It operates as a division of the global company BASF. BASF Coatings’ portfolio includes sustainable and innovative coatings for various sectors. It also offers products for the automotive OEM coatings market. Its investments in digital solutions are aimed at predicting the performance of coatings.
Covestro AG
Covestro AG was founded in 2024 and has its headquarters in Leverkusen, Germany. The company is a leading manufacturer of high-quality polymer materials. It makes use of innovative processes and methods in product development. Its portfolio includes polyurethane-based raw materials for high-performance coatings. The company also provides sustainable options such as waterborne, powder, and energy-curable technologies.
Nippon Paint Holdings Co., Ltd.
Nippon Paint Holdings Co., Ltd. is a Japanese manufacturer of paint and paint products. It is primarily engaged in the development and sale of coating materials and fine chemical products. Its industrial coatings division offers a wide range of coatings for diverse applications. Nippon’s coatings are used in construction machinery, agricultural machinery, office furniture, and home appliances.
Here’s a look at some of the key trends that are shaping the industrial coatings market landscape:
Eco-Friendly and Low-VOC Coating: Governments globally have implemented stringent environmental regulations. As such, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and water-based coatings. These eco-friendly coatings aren’t toxic and don’t pose health concerns. Their use also helps reduce air pollution.
Nanotechnology in Coatings: Manufacturers are also focusing on the development of nanocoatings. These coatings have high durability and can self-clean. Nanocoatings are being increasingly used across various sectors.
Here’s how manufacturers are using innovation to improve the functionality of coatings:
Self-Healing Coatings: Self-healing coatings are one of the key innovations in the coatings industry. These coatings have the capability to repair damage themselves. They use chemical reactions for reorganizing their molecules. This helps restore the original properties of the material.
Antimicrobial Coatings: These industrial coatings come with antimicrobial agents. The presence of antimicrobial agents helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms on surfaces.
Durability and Protection: Industries are increasingly seeking coatings that have high durability and can resist fire. Manufacturers are responding to this shift by offering durable and advanced coatings.
Self-Cleaning Coatings: Self-healing coatings can remove contaminants such as dust and dirt from surfaces. This is achieved using photocatalysis or superhydrophobicity.
Industrial coatings are essential for modern industries. Their use provides protection from corrosion, heat, and other factors. The use of coatings also helps improve aesthetics. The rising demand for efficient and eco-friendly coatings means industrial coatings market key players continue to invest in R&D to improve the performance of industrial coatings.
Want to know more about the different coating types and what the future holds for them? Please browse our website and access the various coating market reports today!