Light up curiosity: BASF Kids’ Lab makes its return to the Zhanjiang Verbund site this summer

• Electrochemistry-themed experiments and exhibits introduce children to the science behind batteries and the diverse applications of electrolysis
• BASF reaffirms its commitment to growing in and with the local community in Zhanjiang

Zhanjiang, China —— August 5, 2026 —— BASF today kicked off the Zhanjiang session of Kids’ Lab, its annual flagship science education program in China, at the Zhanjiang Verbund site. It marks the program’s fourth consecutive year in Zhanjiang.

This year’s program continues to focus on electrochemistry, featuring two popular hands-on experiments from last year, “The Magic of Electrolysis” and “The Secrets of Batteries”, through which children can explore the chemical reactions behind batteries and the diverse applications of electrolysis. On-site interactive exhibits showcase the evolution of batteries, how chemical reactions generate electricity, and the practical applications of electrical energy—creating an engaging learning experience that inspires curiosity and discovery among children. During the five-day program, around 800 children aged 6 to 12 from across Zhanjiang will explore the fascinating world of chemistry through safe and interactive experiments.

“As the Zhanjiang Verbund site becomes fully operational this year, we remain committed to being not only a reliable and competitive production site, but also a responsible and engaged neighbor in Zhanjiang. Hosting Kids' Lab at our site for the second time reflects that commitment,” said Marko Murtonen, Senior Vice President, Zhanjiang Verbund Site, BASF, and General Manager, BASF Integrated Site (Guangdong) Co., Ltd., at the opening ceremony. “By opening our doors to local children and inspiring young minds through hands-on experiments, we are strengthening our ties with the community and contributing to the community development in a meaningful way. We look forward to deepening our engagement with Zhanjiang for years to come.”

As one of the world’s leading chemical companies, BASF is committed to corporate social responsibility and promoting science education. Over the past two decades, the BASF Kids’ Lab program has reached more than 210,000 children across Greater China. Since its debut in Zhanjiang in 2023, the program has engaged thousands of local children. This year, Kids’ Lab has continued its activities in Shanghai and Beijing, and will conclude the summer program in Zhanjiang.

The experiments at the 2026 BASF Kids’ Lab in Zhanjiang are:

The Magic of Electrolysis (45 minutes, for children aged between 6-12)

Electrolysis is a magical process where electrical energy is applied to trigger chemical reactions. It is used in a wide range of applications such as electroplating and the electrolysis of water to produce oxygen and hydrogen. In “The Magic of Electrolysis” experiment, children are encouraged to observe the electrolysis reactions taking place in various electrolytic solutions, and learn to grasp basic chemical concepts such as electrolytes and electrolytic reactions.

The Secrets of Batteries (45 minutes, for children aged between 6-12)

The primary cell is the basic model for almost all batteries. It generates an electric current through the transfer of electrons between reactants in a redox reaction. It generally consists of a positive and negative electrode with an electrolyte. But what does it take to light a bulb? In “The Secrets of Batteries” experiment, volunteers will guide children in selecting appropriate electrode materials and electrolytes to build a primary cell. Children will experience the thrill of lighting up a small bulb, and cherish how precious and hard-won electrical energy can be.

About BASF in Greater China

BASF has been a committed partner to Greater China since 1885. With large production sites in Shanghai, Nanjing, Chongqing and Zhanjiang, as well as a regional research and development hub in Shanghai, BASF is a major foreign investor in the country’s chemical industry. BASF posted sales of approximately €8.2 billion in 2025 to customers in Greater China and employed 12,452 people as of the end of the year. For further information, please visit, please visit www.basf.com/cn/en.

About BASF

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. Our ambition: We want to be the preferred chemical company to enable our customers’ green transformation. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 95,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises, as core businesses, the segments Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, and Nutrition & Care; our standalone businesses are bundled in the segments Surface Technologies and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of around €60 billion in 2025. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the United States. Further information at www.basf.com.