Ethylene dichloride prices in Germany dropped dramatically in early November, to continue the bearish streak. Buyers described feedstock availability as ample, aided by free electrolysis and weaker PVC demand. Surplus co-produced chlorine and weak caustic soda spot export prices were further evidence of plentiful feedstock availability with no large interruptions in supply. The absence of construction activity seasonality further contributed to PVC converters’ weak pull, which described demand as moderate, still pulling slightly below consumption, partly due to procuring spot tenders. Adding to this was a 40-day steam cracker maintenance shutdown at the Wesseling site, which saw quantities of domestic feed ethylene decrease, although steady extrusion activity was reported due to refurbishment programs and wind cabling use. Overall, earlier in the month, price levels of ethylene dichloride were described as generally unchanged, as continued weak downstream demand continued to mitigate the effect of lower input costs from feedstock ethylene dropping 1.4% week on week. Logistics issues at ports in Hamburg, Rotterdam, and Valencia continued to mitigate the flow of cargoes.
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.
