Hexene prices in the US moved into a firmer pattern in early June after a volatile May, with a mid-month slump and recovery. May began range-bound with normal operating rates, then mid-May pullbacks as converters slowed orders, followed by tighter prompt availability as downstream buyers and midstream players pre-booked loads ahead of early-summer demand, underpinning a rebound. Market sentiment shifted from discounting to selective restocking, setting the stage for modest gains in the opening week of June and tempering the sharp monthly decline seen in May. Demand dynamics for Hexene varied by end-use; weaker orders from LLDPE and HDPE pressured Hexene markets through mid-May, while stronger comonomer uptake supported late-May bids. Producers and distributors leaned into early-summer procurement, tightening prompt tonnage and lifting offers. On the month, FOB Texas declined about 9% as mid-month weakness and late-May recovery influenced pricing. The short-term outlook is stable to modestly bullish, aided by firmer comonomer demand, but feedstock volatility could quickly alter Hexene margins and repricing.
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.
