US MDI polymeric markets shifted from a firmer mid-April stance to a softer finish as feedstock costs eased and downstream demand remained muted. Early in April, market participants reported balanced supply and cautious, inventory-driven buying, while mid-month disruptions and limited import arrivals briefly tightened availability. By late April, sentiment weakened as aniline and benzene pressures turned against sellers and construction, insulation and furniture end-users curtailed purchases. The net effect was a retreat from month-highs into a range-bound trading pattern unless upstream or downstream drivers shift. Downstream demand remained broadly soft across core polymeric MDI applications, with polyurethane, construction, insulation and furniture contributing to subdued consumption. Production dynamics provided some relief after mid-month tightness, though planned maintenance at a major producer contributed to short-term supply pressure. The current view is for a stable to range-bound market into the coming week, with upside requiring a clear downstream rebound or renewed supply disruption, and downside risks if buying stays selective.
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.
