R-PET pricing in the US firmed into early May as demand patterns shifted amid higher virgin PET costs. Early April tightness from reduced flake yields gave way to relief by mid-month. Late April uplift in virgin PET encouraged converters to pivot toward recycled inputs. Beverage packaging and thermoforming buyers maintained steady procurement aligned with recycled-content mandates, though some paused fresh purchases and diversified supplier engagement. Weekly assessments showed a shift from a mixed April into an upward start to May, with solid demand for clear flakes used in bottles and recycled-content packaging, supported by persistent stocking patterns among converters. Substitution toward recycled feedstock increased amid rising virgin PET concerns, supported by wash-line operations and Midwest capacity additions, in tandem with improved collection rates nationwide. Bottle-bale availability kept feedstock costs elevated, while energy costs also remained volatile amidst Middle East Geopolitics. The outlook signals a modest near-term downturn before a late-summer rebound, driven by recycling stability, substitution dynamics, and regional supply changes as demand rebalances.
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.
