Starting January 2026, prices of US polymer grade propylene gained slightly 1% in the US Gulf Coast spot market, mainly on feedstock cost support in a geopolitical risk environment. Despite crude oil trading in a bearish range due to global oversupply, the concerns over tensions in the Middle East added some short-term upside pressure, giving a boost to the related petrochemical feedstock sentiment. US propylene stocks also grew +0.8 million barrels, but still were more than 27% above the five-year average, which normally the level would weigh on prices but that was offset by the influence of feedstock. Downstream activity Polypropylene prices in the GCC softened further due to weak demand from all end user sectors and a quick replenishment of stocks. The direction of future prices in propylene markets may depend on increased demand for its derivatives, inventory changes, and any alteration in the availability of crude or PDH feedstock at the beginning of 2026.
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.
