The U.S. polypropylene market accelerated into April due to acute monomer tightness and disrupted trade flows, with cost-push from naphtha and Gulf Coast logistics bottlenecks intensifying. Midmonth, export demand supported higher values as Middle East flows were curtailed; early April cracker outages and constrained propylene supply kept spot markets tight. The result was a rapid re-pricing cycle for homopolymer grades priced FOB Texas, with converters and industrial buyers rebuilding near-term balance. Demand was bifurcated across end-use sectors, though packaging—rigid, flexible, and expanding BOPP film applications—emerged as the strongest offtake, supporting procurement even as resin costs rose. In contrast, plastics and rubber manufacturing indicators showed an approaching softness (ISM low), hinting at tempered demand. Upstream, rising monomer costs and tight LPG/propane, plus a sharp naphtha rally, raised production costs and narrowed polymer margins. Maintenance and lower cracker runs further tightened supply. Near-term view: prices likely remain elevated, subject to continued disruptions or relief.
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.
