US fumed silica prices are expected to continue rising through May and June 2026, driven by persistent feedstock shortages, elevated logistics costs, and steady downstream demand. ChemAnalyst projects May and June, reflecting tight chlorosilane availability after Gulf Coast suppliers diverted feedstock toward higher margin silicone intermediates. This diversion has reduced merchant supply and limited spot output, while rising silicon metal and chlorosilane costs have tightened producer margins. Logistics constraints, including methanol/LPG shipping restrictions, higher freight and insurance premiums, and delayed import arrivals, have further reduced distribution inventories, pushing buyers toward shorter procurement cycles. April set the stage for this firmness, with FOB New York prices rising by 4.5% m/m amid strong demand from high solids coatings, silicone elastomers, adhesives, and electronics. Rail congestion and reduced import arrivals trimmed inventory cover at Houston hubs from 24 to 18 days. With feedstock tightness and geopolitical freight risks persisting, the US fumed silica market is expected to remain firm into early summer.
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.
