Anodized metal is metal on which a conversion coating, composed of a stable oxide, to allow it to accept paint or electroplating, is formed. This coating can also be used for a number of cosmetic effects, either with thick porous coatings that can absorb dyes or with thin transparent coatings that add interference effects to reflected light. This is accomplished by an electrochemical process and is most commonly applied to aluminum, titanium, niobium, and their alloys.