Iso Butanol prices in the USA continued to rise into early April, supported by robust downstream demand and tight prompt availability. Demand from coatings, synthetic lubricants, and fuel-blending users began to uptick, reinforced by seasonal restocking ahead of the construction season and strong export interest that tightened supply. Logistics bottlenecks, vessel constraints, and geopolitical frictions kept prompt barrels of Iso Butanol scarce, prompting buyers to limit purchases to near-term needs. The market entered April at elevated levels, underpinned by persistent feedstock and energy cost pressures that supported further strength. Demand was strongest in coatings and fuel-blending applications, with synthetic lubricants providing additional support. The coatings sector remained robust ahead of the construction season, while consumption from automotive coating applications also provided real support, sustaining the upward movement in Iso Butanol prices. Import dependence remains meaningful, heightening the impact of freight constraints on domestic availability. The near-term outlook points to range-bound trading in April, with supply frictions and cost momentum offering upside.
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.
