Petroleum coke prices in the USA remained effectively flat in late June as weekly assessments held steady amid a softer monthly backdrop. Early June showed higher quotes, but mid-month selling pushed values lower and by month-end offers and bids consolidated. Market sentiment was soft as downstream buyers remained cautious and refiners edged offers lower. The month-on-month picture was pronounced petroleum coke demand deteriorated relative to supply, with key industrial sectors showing muted intake. Cement, aluminum, power generation, steel and graphite electrode manufacturers consumed on an as-needed basis rather than restocking. Export demand was notably weak, with international buyers facing ample regional petroleum coke supply. On the supply side, steady refinery rates ensured ample domestic petroleum coke availability, and high inventories at major hubs softened price pressure. A power outage at TotalEnergies Petrochem & Refining USA Port Arthur caused a temporary outage that reduced petroleum coke capacity for eight days but had limited market impact. Looking ahead, analysts expect continued downside bias unless petroleum coke demand improves or refinery output tightens.
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.
