In January 2026, the US Halo Butyl Rubber market trended on a soft note, and prices dipped slightly on moderate demand along with sufficient supplies in the market. The overall demand remained stable on the back of normal consumption from major users. Tire producers continued to be the biggest consumers, as car sales were weak and automakers' output was limited, but production of inner liners remained solid. Excellent support was also received by the market from medical and pharmaceutical packaging, with vial stoppers and sterile seals receiving steady orders. The production held steady on the supply side, while rising energy costs pushed up costs in the US. Exports continued to be solid, boosted by a weak dollar and solid momentum from last year. In the coming days, Halo Butyl Rubber prices are forecasted to increase as spring demand strengthens, supply is limited by maintenance shutdowns, and a rise in the cost of feedstock isobutylene and crude oil would add further production expense.
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.
