The US ethylene dichloride market experienced a highly volatile trend during April as prices initially surged on tight chlor-alkali availability, redirected export buying, and elevated production expenses before retreating sharply toward the end of the month. Strong demand from chlorine derivatives and chemical intermediate sectors supported firm purchasing activity for ethylene dichloride, while softer PVC and vinyl consumption limited broader market momentum. Higher energy costs and constrained feedstock conditions continued to pressure manufacturing economics throughout the month. Export-oriented demand from overseas buyers also strengthened spot activity along the US Gulf Coast, keeping suppliers active despite fluctuating sentiment. Planned maintenance shutdowns at major facilities tightened supply during the early weeks and contributed to bullish fundamentals before inventories gradually improved later in the month. Market participants expect ethylene dichloride prices to remain largely range-bound in the near term, although firm demand from downstream chemical applications and persistent chlor-alkali tightness may continue supporting a mild upward bias across the market.
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.
