US polyalphaolefin (PAO) prices moved sharply higher in early June after a muted May, reversing weeks of range-bound trade. Early May showed steady sentiment with limited spot activity, while late May softening left buyers cautious. That backdrop set the stage for a June spike, prompting a reassessment of short-term procurement. Overall dynamics show steady operating rates and quiet spot markets through May, followed by a punctuated re-rating in June that could renew dialogue with end-users. May data indicated a modest rise for the lighter viscosity grade, while the spot series stayed in a higher band relative to prior weeks. Supply discipline and buyer nominations remained influential in May, with operating rates normal and no outages. The longer-term view remains bullish, but near-term moves reflect spot sentiment more than production constraints.
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.
