Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) prices in the US trended lower through June as selling pressure and softer downstream activity kept the market on a downward path. Weak demand across most end-use sectors, tempered by a modest automotive build rebound, limited support, while ample imports and comfortable inventories prevented sharp rebounds. Buyers operated on a need-by-need footing; sellers trimmed offers to clear prompt supply amid softer demand. Demand remained bifurcated: automotive applications provided the only moderate support; industrial rubber, sealing products, gloves, and adhesives remained weak. Automotive buyers secured components for hoses and gaskets as builds improved, but not enough to offset soft uptake elsewhere. The CFR Los Angeles grade softened; spot interest waned, and order books thinned. US import dependence amplified the impact of overseas cargoes; cheaper butadiene costs and aggressive Asian NBR offers undercut pricing power. Domestic operating rates remained broadly steady, while inventories stayed ample. The outlook for the US market points to further softness into early July unless downstream demand or import dynamics shift.
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.
