In the first half of October 2025, MDI prices in Europe fell because of a decline in production costs and moderate demand from buyers. Production rates remained firm due to the steady availability of feedstock benzene supplies, and supply from regional suppliers was steady. Trade between European countries remained active. Governments and companies worked on greener transport and better digital tools to improve supply chains. At the same time, demand for MDI stayed stable in the polyurethane (PU) sector. In the automotive industry, it was used to make light parts and insulation for electric cars. In construction, it helped make foam insulation and strong adhesives for buildings. Public projects and green building plans supported this demand. Nevertheless, MDI prices are expected to rise in the coming weeks of the final quarter of 2025 due to an expected increase in the use of PU foam furniture ahead of Black Friday sales and lower supply rates in winter. Higher energy and feedstock costs may also raise production costs, leading sellers to increase their prices.
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.
