n-Propyl Acetate markets in the USA firmed through spring, driven by stronger seasonal demand and tighter upstream costs that constrained merchant availability. Procurement in coatings and paints rose, fuelling pre-summer restocking, while disciplined producer selling moderated spot volumes. Global logistics bottlenecks and higher energy costs lifted import economics, leaving buyers with limited immediate alternatives. The market shifted from range-bound to bullish as formulators and automotive coatings buyers competed for scarce cargoes, underpinning a broader move into April. Demand strength remained centered in coatings and paints, notably automotive and industrial segments, with adhesives and printing inks providing steady support. Solvent formulators showed some softness amid substitution toward other acetates. Supply tightness, rising input costs, and logistics pressures pressured margins and encouraged producers to curb aggressive spot selling and pursue price increases. Outlook signals further upside in the term, supported by feedstock cost pressures and pre-summer restocking, though seasonal factors and potential summer softening could temper demand later in the quarter.
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.
