BASF is fighting the problem that is plaguing many urban areas – eyesore graffiti on public property. The German firm’s coatings division has developed the Relest powder PUR Anti-Sticker coating. The product’s anti-stick surface prevents soiling and reduces cleaning costs. It was specially developed for coating light poles, traffic signal poles and circuit breaker panel boxes.

“Relest Powder PUR Anti-Sticker’s slightly roughened surface offers anti-graffiti properties. Stickers do not adhere properly to the surface and graffiti can be removed more easily,” explained BASF product manager Miriam Belke. The product also features high weathering resistance, scratch resistance and very high chemical resistance.

Eurocoatings GmbH, a service provider for surface technology based in Werl, Germany, is the first company to use the anti-stick coating. “Using the powder coating on light poles offers outstanding protection from soiling and corrosion, and is a valuable addition to our portfolio,” explained CEO Klaus Merckx.

BASF supplies powder coating systems under the product name Relest Powder. The systems can be used for an array of applications, for example, for plant and machine construction, for garden fences and for façade construction. These systems stand out for their low material loss during coating.

The company’s coatings division develops, produces and markets innovative automotive coatings, automotive refinishes and industrial coatings as well as decorative paints. The company operates sites in Europe, North America and South America as well as Asia Pacific. Within this network, it collaborates closely with its customers all over the world. In 2013, the coatings division achieved global sales of €2.9 billion ($3.8 billion).

BASF is the world’s leading chemical company: Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products and crop protection products to oil and gas. BASF had sales of about €74 billion in 2013 and over 112,000 employees as of the end of the year. Its shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (AN).