Polyolefin Plastomer (POP) prices on an FOB U.S. Gulf Coast basis declined 0.68% month-on-month in July 2026 as lower hexene costs offset a marginal increase in ethylene, weakening overall production economics. Demand remained constrained by residential construction and automotive-sector weakness, with low homebuilder confidence, elevated mortgage rates, declining building permits, and reduced EV sales limiting consumption. However, POP prices are anticipated to recover in August and September as industrial activity rebounds after the summer slowdown and buyers begin pre-Q4 inventory procurement. Rising ethylene costs are expected to restore cost-side support, while the Atlantic hurricane season could encourage precautionary purchasing and create temporary supply risks for Gulf Coast producers.
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.
