US TPE prices rose 2.27% in early June 2026, defying a 10.7% ethylene decline, 5.1% butadiene fall, and 1.9% styrene retreat, as the continued elimination of Gulf TPE competition — with SABIC operations severely curtailed by the Hormuz blockade — and extraordinary automotive, EV, and construction sector demand sustained demand-pull pricing dynamics independent of falling feedstock economics. The 25% auto parts tariff amplifying domestic content procurement urgency and North America's 37.2% global TPE market dominance provided structural support. Prices are anticipated to remain firm through Q3 2026 as Gulf production recovery lags diplomatic developments.
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.
