Benzalkonium Chloride (BAC) prices in the U.S. moved higher through March, culminating in a late-month uptick as momentum and trade dynamics kept offers firmer. Mid-month buying activity supported a pronounced rally, while period showed a smaller 0.90% advance, supported by technical buying and importer-cost caution. Weekly movements reflected momentum rather than shocks: 7.65% in the week ending March 13, about 2.20% the following week, and a 0.90% in the week ending March 27. Overall sentiment remained constructive yet balanced, with availability comfortable and plant run-rates normal, supporting a range-bound market under upward pressure. Demand was mixed across end-use sectors: institutional disinfectants provided steady offtake, while personal-care and oilfield segments remained soft with no fresh surges late in the month. Procurement behavior was guarded in mid-March, tempering broader strength. Outlook points to stability with limited upside, aided by inventories, steady plant performance, and freight costs.
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.
