The US ethylene market tightened sharply through March as constrained feedstock availability and strong downstream demand drove a sustained rally. Early disruptions to ethane flows and rising replacement costs for crude and LPG supported higher producer margins, while firm export inquiries and robust polyethylene offtake reinforced buying interest. Freeze off risks, infrastructure outages, and elevated freight and insurance costs limited supply flexibility, keeping sellers cautious and buyers active. Packaged goods demand, particularly food packaging, films, and e commerce materials, provided major support, with polyethylene accounting for roughly sixty percent of ethylene consumption. Housing related demand remained modest but steady. Spot indicators reflected the tightening balance, with the monthly reference rising, and weekly prices climbing steadily by March 29. Upstream constraints, including reduced ethane deliveries and several outages, amplified the firm tone. Near term expectations point to stable to firm ethylene pricing, moderated only by incremental supply additions and rising stockpiles.
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.
