China’s Tertiary Butyl Alcohol (TBA) prices are expected to continue weakening into June 2026, driven by the upcoming monsoon season, softer crude oil expectations, and declining isobutylene feedstock costs. Seasonal monsoon conditions typically reduce demand from coatings, adhesives, and industrial solvent applications, while falling crude benchmarks are likely to pressure isobutylene further, lowering MTBE linked TBA margins. With coastal integrated complexes running steadily and inventories comfortable, supply remains ample, and the absence of an import pull reinforces bearish sentiment. Buyers are adopting short cycle procurement strategies in anticipation of lower June prices. May’s trend already reflected this shift. The FOB TBA Qingdao benchmark, with weekly values easing by May 31, a 3.1% WoW decline. Upstream isobutylene added margin pressure, while steady operating rates and muted spot enquiries accelerated the late May downturn. With feedstock weakness and cautious demand, June pricing is expected to remain under pressure unless crude or downstream sentiment unexpectedly improves.
Selenis has effectively manufactured recycled PET chips using terephthalic acid sourced from Circ®, a textile-to-textile recycler based in Virginia. The chip production took place through a series of batches at Selenis' pilot plant in San-Giorgio, Italy. By utilizing inputs recovered from polycotton textile waste, Selenis has created high-quality PET chip, which has been further processed into DTY yarn. This yarn will play a crucial role in product development as Circ prepares for additional capsule launches. Selenis is leveraging the success of this initial collaboration phase and is committed to advancing towards an offtake partnership to support Circ's inaugural industrial facility.
Eduardo Santos, Head of Corporate Strategy at Selenis, remarked that the monomer synthesis showed a performance comparable to virgin terephthalic acid. He expressed optimism about the consistent quality of Circ's monomer output and anticipated future commercial success. Santos pointed out that the Circ partnership complements Selenis's existing mission and goals for a more sustainable textile industry. He further stated their anticipation of expanding upon this collaboration and providing support for Circ's forthcoming commercial production trials.
