We are using this deeper understanding to improve our existing product portfolio for our customers, to create new products or develop existing ones," explains Dr. Stefan Marcinowski, member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF Aktiengesellschaft and Executive Research Director. "For BASF, the application of new insights and developments in nanotechnology is a decisive step on the road to profitable growth through innovation." Research into nanotechnology is worth a lot to BASF: The company intends to spend €180 million in these activities up to 2008.