Chinese metakaolin markets softened in January as seasonal weakness and softer demand outweighed steady upstream output. Early-month operations remained normal with uninterrupted feedstock and flash-calcination across Fujian, Guangdong, and Guangxi, but mid-month bid cuts and pre-holiday slowdowns weighed on spot activity. Port yard congestion limited delivery flexibility, while weaker export inquiries reinforced the downtrend, prompting sellers to negotiate on spot material. Demand remained soft across construction, property, and export channels, dampening prices. The construction sector - cement, concrete, and SCMs with metakaolin - was subdued as builders trimmed procurement ahead of the holiday. Domestic cement activity and related inputs held steady, underscoring muted momentum. On the supply side, metakaolin production stayed resilient with stock availability stable and no new inspections or kiln closures reported. Logistics, bids, and replenishment patterns contributed to downside pressure, while developers and distributors reduced bulk purchases.
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.
