Near-Term Future Is Bright for Industrial Maintenance Coatings

By Cynthia Challener

The definition of industrial maintenance (TM) coatings is up fo, debate. Some consider them to include any coatings applied for the purpose of pro­tecting assets. Others limit the segment to coatings applied in the field only, with OEM coatings categorized separately. Either way, the outlook for the general industrial coatings market appears to be quite positive. The value of sale· has increased in recent years and this trend is expected to continue through 2007, and possibly into 2008. During this period of growth, players throughout the supply chain have focused on development of new technolo­gies to establish competitive advantage and maximize their opportunities.

The global market for field applied, ambient temperature-cure industrial maintenance coatings is valued at $3.0-$4.5 billion by consulting firm Kusumgar, Nerlfi & Growney. These coatings are used in the petrochemical, chemical, power generation, and other industries, and for bridges and high­ways, water and waste water treatment facilities, factories, and other applica­tions. Regionally, the U.S. accounts for $1-$1.5 billion, Asia for $1.3-$2.0 billion, and Europe for $0.8-$1.0 billion. Western markets and Japan are mature, while Asia, and specifically China, is experiencing the fastest growth.