A Technical Guide to Embossed Sheets: Structure, Composition, and Applications

Types of Embossed Stainless Steel Sheets

Embossed stainless steel sheets are a specialized variation of stainless steel that feature raised or recessed patterns pressed into the surface. These patterns enhance both functional and aesthetic qualities, making them ideal for a wide range of industrial, architectural, and decorative applications. The selection of embossed sheet type depends on the desired balance between durability, safety, visual appeal, and application-specific performance.

Unpatterned Embossed Sheets

These sheets have a subtle, uniform embossed finish without intricate designs. The texture improves grip and reduces surface reflectivity, offering a practical solution where visual subtlety and functionality are prioritized.

Advantages

• Improved surface traction
• Reduced glare and reflectance
• Simple, clean appearance
• Ideal for industrial environments

Limitations

• Limited decorative value
• Less visual interest
• Fewer design customization options

Best for: Industrial machinery, architectural cladding, utility panels, and equipment enclosures

Geometric Embossed Sheets

Featuring structured patterns such as diamonds, squares, hexagons, or linear grooves, these sheets combine visual appeal with enhanced mechanical performance. The repeating geometric motifs provide excellent slip resistance and structural rigidity.

Advantages

• High slip resistance
• Enhanced structural strength
• Modern, professional aesthetic
• Versatile for walls, floors, and panels

Limitations

• May trap dirt in deep grooves
• Slightly more complex to clean
• Potential for pattern wear over time

Best for: Flooring in commercial spaces, elevator interiors, wall panels, stair treads, and cleanroom environments

Floral & Thematic Embossed Sheets

These decorative sheets feature intricate embossed designs such as floral motifs, nature-inspired patterns, or custom artistic themes. Designed primarily for visual impact, they elevate interior spaces with a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Advantages

• High aesthetic and artistic value
• Customizable designs available
• Creates focal points in interiors
• Perfect for luxury and branding applications

Limitations

• Higher cost due to design complexity
• Limited structural enhancement
• Requires careful handling during installation

Best for: Luxury interiors, retail store backdrops, hotel lobbies, art installations, and premium architectural accents

Utility Embossed Sheets

Engineered for high-performance environments, these sheets prioritize safety and durability. They feature aggressive, deeply embossed textures designed to maximize grip and protect against wear, impact, and environmental exposure.

Advantages

• Exceptional slip and wear resistance
• Enhanced safety in wet or oily conditions
• Durable and long-lasting
• Ideal for heavy-duty industrial use

Limitations

• Harsh texture may be uncomfortable to touch
• Can be difficult to clean in tight grooves
• Less visually appealing for decorative use

Best for: Machine guards, walkways, platforms, fabrication components, and protective coverings in industrial settings

Type	Primary Function	Aesthetic Value	Durability	Common Applications
Unpatterned	Functional grip & reduced reflectance	Low	High	Industrial equipment, architectural cladding
Geometric	Slip resistance & structural strength	Medium to High	Very High	Flooring, panels, stair treads
Floral & Thematic	Decorative enhancement	Very High	Medium	Interior design, retail, luxury spaces
Utility	Safety and protection	Low	Excellent	Machinery guards, industrial platforms

Expert Tip: When selecting embossed stainless steel sheets for outdoor or high-moisture environments, opt for grades like 304 or 316 stainless steel to ensure corrosion resistance and long-term performance, regardless of the embossing pattern.

Features of Embossed Sheets: Enhancing Form, Function, and Durability

Embossed sheets are widely used across industries due to their unique combination of aesthetic versatility and functional performance. The embossing process involves pressing or stamping a design into a flat sheet, creating raised or recessed patterns that enhance both visual appeal and mechanical properties. These sheets are commonly found in construction, transportation, interior design, and industrial applications, where their multi-functional benefits provide long-term value.

Surface Texture

The defining feature of embossed sheets is their textured surface, which incorporates raised or recessed patterns such as diamonds, lines, or geometric motifs. This texture serves both practical and aesthetic purposes—most notably, it significantly improves slip resistance, making embossed sheets ideal for flooring, stair treads, ramps, and handrails in high-traffic or hazardous environments.

In addition to safety, the textured surface alters how light interacts with the material, reducing glare and creating dynamic visual effects. This property is especially beneficial in architectural cladding, interior walls, and ceilings, where minimizing reflections enhances visual comfort and design sophistication.

Aesthetic Appeal

Embossed sheets offer a premium visual upgrade over flat surfaces, adding depth, dimension, and elegance to any application. Available in a wide range of patterns—from classic checker plates to intricate floral or modern abstract designs—they can be tailored to suit diverse design themes, including contemporary, industrial, rustic, or minimalist styles.

These sheets are extensively used in decorative applications such as wall paneling, elevator interiors, furniture facades, and retail displays. Their ability to mimic high-end materials like leather, wood grain, or stone—while remaining durable and cost-effective—makes them a favorite among architects and interior designers.

Increased Rigidity & Structural Strength

One of the most significant engineering advantages of embossing is the enhancement of a sheet’s structural rigidity. The deformation process introduces geometric stiffening, which helps distribute mechanical loads more evenly across the surface. As a result, embossed sheets resist bending and flexing better than their flat counterparts, even when made from thinner gauges.

This increased stiffness improves performance in applications requiring large spans with minimal support, such as roofing, wall panels, truck beds, and equipment enclosures. It also reduces vibration and noise transmission, contributing to improved durability and user comfort in automotive and industrial settings.

Functional & Safety Benefits

Beyond aesthetics, embossed sheets deliver critical functional advantages, particularly in environments where safety and traction are paramount. The raised patterns provide excellent grip under wet, oily, or dusty conditions, helping prevent slips and falls in industrial facilities, marine vessels, public transport, and commercial kitchens.

In addition to anti-slip properties, the textured surface can hide scratches, scuffs, and minor wear, maintaining a clean appearance over time. This makes embossed sheets low-maintenance and well-suited for high-use areas where both safety and appearance matter.

Versatility Across Materials

Embossed sheets are manufactured from a broad spectrum of materials, allowing customization based on performance, budget, and environmental conditions. Common options include:

• Stainless Steel: Offers corrosion resistance and a sleek, modern finish—ideal for food processing, healthcare, and exterior cladding.
• Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant, perfect for aerospace, transportation, and decorative indoor applications.
• Carbon Steel: Durable and cost-effective, often used in industrial flooring and heavy machinery.
• PVC & Vinyl: Flexible and affordable, commonly used in wall coverings, ceiling tiles, and residential interiors.

This material flexibility ensures that embossed sheets can be adapted to nearly any environment, from harsh industrial plants to elegant commercial spaces.

Applications & Industry Use

Thanks to their multi-functional nature, embossed sheets are employed across numerous sectors:

• Construction: Wall panels, roofing, stair treads, and elevator interiors.
• Transportation: Truck beds, trailer floors, bus and train flooring, and aircraft interiors.
• Interior Design: Feature walls, ceilings, furniture, and retail displays.
• Industrial: Machine guards, walkways, platforms, and control rooms.
• Marine: Decking and non-slip surfaces on ships and offshore platforms.

Their adaptability makes embossed sheets a go-to solution for designers and engineers seeking both performance and visual impact.

Feature	Key Benefit	Common Applications
Surface Texture	Improved slip resistance and glare reduction	Flooring, stair treads, wall panels
Aesthetic Appeal	Enhanced visual depth and design flexibility	Interior decoration, retail, architecture
Increased Rigidity	Greater structural strength and reduced flexing	Roofing, truck beds, large-span panels
Functional Safety	Superior traction and accident prevention	Industrial walkways, marine decks, transport
Material Versatility	Customization for cost, weight, and environment	From stainless steel to PVC panels

Tip: When selecting embossed sheets, consider the operating environment, load requirements, and maintenance needs. Choosing the right pattern and material ensures optimal performance, longevity, and safety. Always consult manufacturer specifications for thickness, corrosion resistance, and installation guidelines to maximize return on investment.

Uses of Embossed Sheets

Embossed sheets—metal, plastic, or composite materials with raised or recessed patterns—are widely used across industries due to their functional and aesthetic advantages. The embossing process enhances surface texture, strength, and visual appeal, making these sheets ideal for applications where durability, safety, and design are critical. Below is a comprehensive overview of the most significant uses of embossed sheets in modern manufacturing and design.

Architectural Applications

Embossed sheets, especially stainless steel, aluminum, and coated metal variants, are extensively used in architectural design and construction. The embossing not only improves mechanical strength but also adds a sophisticated visual texture to building interiors and exteriors.

• Commonly used for wall cladding, ceiling panels, elevator interiors, and decorative room dividers in commercial and residential buildings
• Enhances resistance to scratches, fingerprints, and wear—ideal for high-traffic areas like lobbies, hospitals, and public transit stations
• Provides a modern, clean aesthetic that complements minimalist and industrial design trends
• Available in various patterns (e.g., diamond, linen, stucco) to suit different design themes and functional needs

Design advantage: Combines structural durability with customizable aesthetics for premium architectural finishes.

Industrial Utilitarianism

In industrial environments, safety and functionality are paramount. Embossed sheets offer slip-resistant surfaces and improved structural rigidity, making them essential in factories, workshops, and processing plants.

• Used for flooring, walkways, platforms, and stair treads to prevent slips and falls in oily, wet, or high-moisture environments
• Applied to machine guards, control panels, and equipment enclosures to improve grip and reduce surface glare
• Facilitates fluid runoff and debris dispersion, minimizing contamination and improving cleanliness in food processing and chemical plants
• Diamond-pattern embossing is especially popular for its aggressive traction and load-bearing capacity

Safety benefit: Meets OSHA and ISO standards for workplace safety when used in elevated or hazardous areas.

Automotive and Aerospace Industry

Lightweight yet strong materials are crucial in transportation. Embossed sheets provide enhanced rigidity without adding significant weight, making them ideal for automotive and aerospace applications.

• Used in interior components such as door panels, dashboards, headliners, and trim to improve tactile feel and reduce glare
• Embossed aluminum and stainless steel enhance cabin aesthetics in luxury vehicles and aircraft while resisting wear and corrosion
• Improves structural performance in body panels and undercarriage components by increasing stiffness and impact resistance
• In aerospace, used in cabin interiors and cargo areas for durability, fire resistance, and noise dampening

Performance edge: Balances weight reduction with improved mechanical performance in high-stress environments.

Consumer Goods

From home appliances to electronics, embossed sheets enhance both the look and usability of consumer products. The textured finish adds perceived value and improves user interaction.

• Found in refrigerators, washing machines, ovens, and microwaves for a premium appearance and fingerprint resistance
• Used in electronic device enclosures (e.g., laptops, speakers) to add visual depth and improve grip
• Applied to furniture, lighting fixtures, and decorative items to create unique design elements
• Textured surfaces enhance ergonomics and reduce smudging, especially in high-touch areas

Market appeal: Differentiates products in competitive markets by offering a tactile and visually refined finish.

Packaging Solutions

Embossed sheets elevate packaging design by adding texture, brand identity, and protection. They are especially popular in premium and luxury product packaging.

• Used in cosmetic boxes, jewelry cases, electronics packaging, and gift sets to create a luxurious unboxing experience
• Embossed metal or laminated sheets add structural integrity and protect delicate contents during shipping
• Custom patterns can incorporate logos, brand motifs, or thematic designs for enhanced branding
• Increases perceived product value and shelf appeal in retail environments

Brand enhancement: Turns packaging into a sensory experience that reinforces brand quality and attention to detail.

Additional Applications

Beyond the core industries, embossed sheets serve niche but growing roles in innovative and specialized fields.

• Medical Equipment: Used in enclosures and panels for easy cleaning and antimicrobial surface options
• Renewable Energy: Applied in solar panel frames and wind turbine housings for weather resistance and durability
• Marine Industry: Employed in ship interiors and deck components for slip resistance and corrosion protection
• Art & Signage: Utilized in sculptural installations, wayfinding signs, and branded displays for visual impact

Innovation potential: Emerging uses in smart surfaces and interactive design are expanding the functional scope of embossed materials.

Expert Insight: When selecting embossed sheets, consider the balance between pattern depth, material thickness, and intended use. Shallow embossing suits aesthetic applications, while deeper patterns are better for slip resistance and structural reinforcement. Always verify compatibility with finishing processes like painting, coating, or welding if further fabrication is required.

Application Sector	Common Materials	Popular Embossing Patterns	Key Benefits
Architecture & Interiors	Stainless steel, aluminum, galvanized steel	Diamond, linen, stucco, geometric	Aesthetic appeal, scratch resistance, durability
Industrial Safety	Carbon steel, aluminum, composite panels	Diamond, pyramid, bar grip	Slip resistance, load-bearing, fluid drainage
Automotive & Aerospace	Aluminum, stainless steel, composites	Custom textures, fine grain, linear	Weight reduction, rigidity, premium finish
Consumer Products	Coated steel, aluminum, plastic laminates	Brushed, woven, logo embossing	Fingerprint resistance, ergonomics, branding
Luxury Packaging	Embossed paperboard, metal foils, laminates	Logo, floral, abstract, tactile	Brand differentiation, unboxing experience, protection

Factors Influencing Embossed Sheet Selection

• Material Type: Stainless steel for corrosion resistance, aluminum for lightweight needs, carbon steel for cost-effective industrial use
• Pattern Depth: Deeper patterns increase grip and strength; shallower ones enhance aesthetics without affecting flatness
• Finish Options: Available in brushed, polished, coated, or painted finishes to match design requirements
• Environmental Resistance: Critical for outdoor or harsh environments—look for UV-resistant, anti-corrosion, or chemical-resistant treatments
• Customization: Many suppliers offer custom embossing dies for brand-specific patterns or functional textures

How to Choose Embossed Sheets: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

Embossed sheets are widely used across construction, interior design, industrial manufacturing, and decorative applications due to their enhanced texture, visual appeal, and functional benefits. Choosing the right embossed sheet involves more than just aesthetics—it requires careful evaluation of material, durability, pattern, application needs, and cost. This guide breaks down the key factors to help you make an informed decision tailored to your project’s specific requirements.

Pro Tip: Always request physical samples before making bulk purchases. Seeing and feeling the embossed sheet in person helps assess texture, finish, and overall quality under real lighting and handling conditions.

1. Material Choice: Matching Performance to Environment

Selecting the right material is the foundation of your embossed sheet selection. The material determines durability, resistance to environmental factors, weight, and cost.

• Metals (Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Galvanized Steel): Ideal for outdoor, industrial, or high-traffic environments. These materials offer superior strength, corrosion resistance, and longevity. Stainless steel is excellent for architectural cladding and food processing areas due to its hygienic properties. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, making it perfect for facades, roofing, and transportation applications.
• Plastics (PVC, Polypropylene, Polycarbonate): Best suited for indoor use, signage, partitions, and lightweight panels. PVC is cost-effective, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean—ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and retail displays. Polypropylene offers chemical resistance, making it suitable for laboratories or industrial interiors.
• Composite Materials: Combine the benefits of multiple materials (e.g., aluminum composite panels – ACP) for enhanced insulation, fire resistance, and design flexibility. Commonly used in modern building exteriors and commercial interiors.

2. Thickness and Durability: Balancing Strength and Flexibility

The thickness of an embossed sheet directly impacts its structural integrity, impact resistance, and ease of installation.

• Thicker Sheets (0.8mm and above for metal; 3mm+ for plastic): Provide greater rigidity and load-bearing capacity. Recommended for flooring, wall cladding in high-impact zones, and exterior applications exposed to wind or debris.
• Thinner Sheets (Below 0.5mm for metal; 1–2mm for plastic): More pliable and easier to cut, bend, or shape. Suitable for decorative wall panels, ceiling tiles, and non-structural design elements.
• Considerations: Thicker doesn’t always mean better—ensure the substrate or framing can support the added weight. Always refer to manufacturer specifications for load ratings and deflection limits.

3. Embossed Pattern and Finish: Aesthetic Appeal and Functional Benefits

The embossing pattern influences both the visual character and practical performance of the sheet.

• Pattern Types:
  • Geometric (Diamond, Linear, Checker): Adds grip and structure; commonly used in industrial flooring and anti-slip surfaces.
  • Organic or Textured (Wood Grain, Stone, Fabric): Mimics natural materials for decorative interiors, offering visual warmth without the maintenance of real wood or stone.
  • Custom/Branded Patterns: Available for corporate branding, architectural identity, or unique design projects.
• Surface Finish:
  • Glossy Finish: Enhances light reflection, adds depth, and creates a modern, sleek appearance. Best for retail spaces and accent walls. However, it may show fingerprints and scratches more easily.
  • Matte or Satin Finish: Reduces glare, hides imperfections, and provides a sophisticated, contemporary look. Ideal for offices, healthcare facilities, and high-touch areas.
  • Textured Finish: Improves slip resistance and tactile experience—essential for safety-critical applications like walkways or handrails.

4. Application Requirements: Functionality First

Define the primary use case to narrow down your options effectively. Different environments demand different performance characteristics.

• Interior Decoration: Focus on aesthetics, ease of cleaning, and compatibility with existing design elements. PVC or composite panels with wood-grain embossing are popular for feature walls and ceilings.
• Industrial Flooring: Prioritize slip resistance, chemical resistance, and durability. Check for certifications like DIN 51130 (slip resistance) or ASTM standards for industrial use.
• Exterior Cladding: Requires UV resistance, weatherproofing, and thermal expansion tolerance. Metal or composite panels with protective coatings are preferred.
• Transportation & Equipment: Lightweight yet durable materials like aluminum are ideal for trailers, truck beds, or machinery covers.
• Hygienic Environments (Hospitals, Kitchens): Non-porous, seamless, and antimicrobial finishes are critical. Stainless steel or medical-grade PVC are recommended.

5. Cost and Availability: Budgeting Smartly Without Compromising Quality

While budget constraints are real, long-term value should guide your investment.

• Price Range: Metal sheets (especially stainless steel) are generally more expensive than plastic alternatives. Complex embossing patterns or custom finishes may increase costs by 15–30%.
• Availability: Standard patterns and materials (e.g., aluminum checker plate) are widely available with short lead times. Custom or imported designs may require weeks to source.
• Supplier Evaluation: Compare multiple suppliers for pricing, minimum order quantities, delivery timelines, and warranty terms. Look for ISO-certified manufacturers to ensure quality consistency.
• Hidden Costs: Factor in installation, tooling, and potential waste during cutting. Some materials require specialized fasteners or adhesives.

Material Type	Best For	Typical Thickness Range	Estimated Cost (Relative)	Key Considerations
Stainless Steel	Exterior cladding, industrial flooring, hygienic environments	0.5–3.0 mm	$$$	High corrosion resistance, heavy, requires professional installation
Aluminum	Facades, roofing, transportation, lightweight structures	0.3–2.0 mm	$$	Lightweight, rust-resistant, prone to denting under heavy impact
PVC	Interior walls, ceilings, partitions, wet areas	1–5 mm	$	Moisture-resistant, easy to install, not suitable for high heat
Polypropylene	Chemical labs, food processing, clean rooms	2–6 mm	$$	Chemical and heat resistant, recyclable, limited structural strength
Composite Panels (ACP)	Architectural facades, signage, modern interiors	3–6 mm	$$$	Excellent insulation, fire-rated options available, higher initial cost

Expert Advice: Always verify compliance with local building codes and fire safety regulations, especially for commercial or public space installations. Some embossed materials must meet specific flame spread and smoke development ratings (e.g., ASTM E84).

Final Selection Checklist

• ✔️ Have I identified the primary application (interior, exterior, industrial, decorative)?
• ✔️ Is the material suitable for the environmental conditions (moisture, UV, temperature, chemicals)?
• ✔️ Does the embossed pattern provide the desired aesthetic and functional benefits (e.g., slip resistance)?
• ✔️ Is the thickness appropriate for structural or decorative needs?
• ✔️ Have I obtained samples to evaluate color, texture, and finish under real lighting?
• ✔️ Are the cost, lead time, and supplier reliability aligned with my project timeline?

Choosing the right embossed sheet is a balance of form and function. By carefully evaluating material, thickness, design, application, and budget, you can select a product that enhances both the performance and visual appeal of your project. When in doubt, consult with a materials specialist or supplier to ensure your choice meets all technical and aesthetic requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Embossed Metal Sheets

Q1: Are embossed sheets durable for outdoor use?

Yes, embossed metal sheets—particularly those made from aluminum or stainless steel—are exceptionally well-suited for outdoor applications due to their inherent resistance to corrosion, weathering, and UV degradation. These materials naturally form a protective oxide layer that prevents rust and maintains structural integrity over time.

• Aluminum embossed sheets: Lightweight and highly corrosion-resistant, ideal for architectural cladding, roofing, and signage exposed to moisture and salt air.
• Stainless steel embossed sheets: Offer superior strength and longevity in harsh environments such as coastal areas or industrial zones.
• Surface protection: The raised patterns in embossed sheets help mask minor scratches and dents, preserving aesthetic appeal even under frequent physical contact or thermal expansion.

Additionally, many embossed sheets can be coated with protective finishes like powder coating or anodizing to further enhance durability and color retention in direct sunlight.

Q2: What is the main benefit of utilizing embossed sheets in interior design?

The primary advantage of using embossed metal sheets in interior spaces lies in their ability to combine functional performance with striking visual and tactile qualities. The three-dimensional patterns create dynamic light interactions that elevate the ambiance of any environment.

• Enhanced light diffusion: The textured surface scatters light evenly, reducing harsh reflections and glare—making it ideal for offices, retail spaces, and commercial lobbies.
• Acoustic benefits: Certain embossing patterns can subtly improve sound absorption when used on walls or ceilings, contributing to better room acoustics.
• Design versatility: Available in a wide range of patterns (e.g., diamond, linen, stucco), finishes (brushed, polished, matte), and colors, allowing seamless integration into modern, industrial, or luxury interiors.
• Tactile appeal: Adds depth and sophistication to surfaces, enhancing user experience in high-end architectural and furniture applications.

From feature walls to elevator panels and ceiling systems, embossed sheets offer both aesthetic richness and long-term durability.

Q3: Does the embossing process impact the recyclability of metal sheets?

No, the embossing process does not compromise the recyclability of metal sheets in any way. Whether it's an embossed aluminum sheet, stainless steel, or galvanized steel, the material remains 100% recyclable at the end of its lifecycle.

• Process integrity: Embossing is a cold-forming technique that shapes the metal without adding chemicals or altering its base composition.
• Perforated & embossed combinations: Even when combined with perforation for ventilation or acoustic purposes, these hybrid sheets retain full recyclability without separation requirements.
• Sustainability advantage: Recycled aluminum requires only 5% of the energy needed to produce new aluminum, making embossed metal a highly eco-friendly choice in green building standards like LEED or BREEAM.

This makes embossed metal sheets a sustainable option for environmentally conscious construction and design projects.

Q4: Can embossed sheets be used in flooring solutions?

Absolutely. Embossed metal sheets are increasingly used in flooring applications—especially where safety, durability, and low maintenance are priorities. Their textured surface provides excellent slip resistance, making them ideal for both industrial and public environments.

• Slip-resistant properties: Patterns like diamond tread or serrated profiles offer superior grip under wet, oily, or high-traffic conditions.
• Common applications: Industrial walkways, loading docks, mezzanine floors, stair treads, ramps, and transportation platforms (e.g., trucks, trailers, marine vessels).
• Load-bearing strength: Steel-based embossed sheets can support heavy machinery and foot traffic without deformation.
• Hygienic & easy to clean: Smooth yet textured surfaces resist bacterial growth and are compatible with industrial cleaning protocols.

When properly installed with anti-fatigue backing or integrated into composite floor systems, embossed sheets also improve comfort for workers standing for extended periods.

Q5: How to maintain embossed sheets for a longer period of time?

Maintaining embossed metal sheets is straightforward and requires minimal effort, contributing to their long service life and consistent appearance. Regular cleaning prevents dirt, grease, and debris from accumulating in the recessed areas of the pattern.

• Cleaning method: Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild detergent and warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or steel wool that could scratch the surface.
• Frequency: Monthly cleaning is sufficient for indoor installations; outdoor or industrial settings may require bi-weekly or weekly maintenance depending on exposure.
• Rinse thoroughly: Especially important in coastal or chemical environments to remove salt deposits or contaminants.
• Inspection: Periodically check for signs of coating damage or corrosion, particularly in cut edges or fastener points, and apply touch-up coatings if necessary.
• Special care for finishes: Polished or colored sheets may benefit from specialized waxes or sealants to preserve luster and prevent fading.

With proper care, embossed metal sheets can retain their appearance and functionality for decades, offering excellent return on investment across architectural, industrial, and decorative applications.