US 1-Hexene prices rose sharply in February as strong polyethylene-sector demand, export enquiries, and higher ethylene costs tightened supply. Gulf Coast producers limited spot volumes ahead of scheduled maintenance while logistics delays and inventory drawdowns further reduced prompt availability. Market sentiment was also supported by firm export demand to Asia, Europe, and Mexico. Looking ahead, geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran are creating additional uncertainty. Attacks affecting facilities operated by QatarEnergy and shipping risks around the Strait of Hormuz could potentially disrupt global alpha-olefin supply chains, supporting further price strength.
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.
