The US ethylene oxide market weakened during June 2026 as comfortable domestic supply and softer downstream demand continued to pressure contract prices. High operating rates at integrated ethane crackers and ethylene oxide units following spring maintenance ensured ample product availability, while demand from polyester feedstocks, surfactants, specialty chemicals, and sterilization applications remained subdued. Elevated inventories and limited export opportunities encouraged buyers to adopt conservative, just-in-time purchasing strategies, reinforcing bearish market sentiment throughout the month. Although feedstock ethane remained cost-competitive, comfortable supply conditions outweighed any production cost support. Market attention has now shifted toward July, when a modest recovery is anticipated as higher ethylene costs begin filtering into production economics and some downstream buyers return to the market after June's cautious procurement cycle. However, abundant inventories, restrained export demand, and balanced supply are expected to cap any significant upside, leaving the near-term outlook for ethylene oxide cautiously optimistic but largely dependent on feedstock movements and unexpected supply disruptions.
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.
