US MDI (Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate) Polymeric Grade rose by 5.86%for the week ending March 20, 2026. Prices strengthened amid rising feedstock benzene costs, driven by geopolitical tensions and higher crude oil values, which increased overall production expenses. In the U.S., supply-demand dynamics tightened as global MDI supply fell by 15% in Q1 due to maintenance shutdowns, while demand improved with a rebound in construction and insulation sectors. Covestro Inc. raised prices by $0.10/lb (~$220/ton) effective March 1, alongside volume restrictions, while Huntsman implemented a $260/ton hike, reinforcing bullish sentiment. Trade flows shifted significantly, with U.S. imports from China dropping to just 27 tonnes in March due to tariffs, while total imports declined to 10,900 tonnes from 35,500 tonnes a year earlier, increasing reliance on European supply. Globally, BASF announced a $500/ton increase in East Asia, and Wanhua declared force majeure in the Middle East. Tight spot availability and pre-season restocking supported firm pricing, with expectations of further upward momentum.
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.
