U.S. PBT prices rose 5.97% during the week ending 17 April 2026, driven by a sharp 19% surge in PTA feedstock costs linked to paraxylene inflation from Strait of Hormuz supply disruptions arising from the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict. Structurally tightened domestic PTA supply following the permanent Cape Fear plant closure amplified the cost shock. A marginal BDO decline provided negligible offset. Iran's nominal Hormuz reopening on 17 April offered no practical relief as the U.S. naval blockade remained operative. Electrical, electronics, and automotive demand remained firm. The near-term outlook is strongly bullish, contingent on Hormuz restoration and U.S.-Iran negotiation outcomes.
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.
