Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) in the USA moved higher in early May as balanced inventories aligned with a seasonal lift from beverage bottlers, signaling constructive but orderly demand. The market tone remained steadier after the late-April upcycle, with buyers pursuing functional procurement rather than broad restocking. Imports from overseas markets including Mexico and Asian market arrived on schedule, keeping channels open even as upstream cost pressures from crude-linked feedstock tightness kept sellers cautious. The broader trend was an upward tilt into peak season, aided by mixed demand across end markets. Bottle-grade PET benefited from advancing bottling schedules, while other segments including thermoformed trays and food-packaging demand held steady; converters and brand owners remained conservative to meet recycled-content targets, limiting speculative buying. The April reference and subsequent spot activity point to an ongoing, but not explosive, uplift—roughly mid-teens uplift—through May. Key risks include energy-cost sensitivity and possible shifts in feedstock availability or freight routes, underscoring the need for flexible, forward-looking purchasing.
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.
