US hydroquinone markets moved sharply higher through March as tight domestic supply and downstream demand supported firmer offers. Producers operated near maximum output while inventories remained lean, and restocking by distributors in Canada and Brazil, along with increased batch activity by photographic film manufacturers, sustained call-offs. Ongoing feedstock inflation and logistics constraints kept sellers on the front foot, with allocations prioritized for firm orders ahead of the summer season. Core demand remained robust, with photographic and personal-care segments driving activity. Photographic film producers expanded batch runs ahead of the peak season, helping absorb available lots, while cosmetic-grade purchases from dermatology clinics maintained a steady personal-care pull. Polymer-additive demand rose as vehicle output increased year on year, lifting antioxidant consumption for ABS resin makers. Export enquiries remained brisk, with North American buyers restocking after a quiet winter. Looking ahead, an upside trajectory persists into April, supported by restocking, sustained feedstock inflation, and limited domestic capacity, albeit with ongoing logistics risk.
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.
