Naphtha rPET – Mercedes: Solid-State Batteries “May Not Be Necessary” Solid-state batteries? For Mercedes, they might no longer be necessary given the progress of lithium-ion batteries 15-01-2024

Naphtha rPET

Naphtha rPET

  • Polymers : PET – r-PET – Filament grade semidull chips -Filament grade bright chips – Ny6 – Ny66 – PP
  • Feedstocks  PX – PTA – MEG – CPL – Adipic Acid – Benzene – ACN – Ethylene – Phenol – Naphtha
  • Textile : Polyester POY – DTY – FDY – PSF – Recycled Polyester POY – Nylon POY – DTY – FDY Spandex 20-30-40 -Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  Acrylic Staple Fiber 

Naphtha rPET

Naphtha rPET

Polyestertime
ITEM 08/01/2024 15/01/2023 +/-
Bottle grade PET chips domestic market 6,900 yuan/ton 6,870 yuan/ton -30
Bottle grade PET chips export market 890 $/ton 890 $/ton
Filament grade Semidull chips domestic market 6,760 yuan/ton 6,730 yuan/ton -30
Filament grade Bright chips domestic market 6,760 yuan/ton 6,730 yuan/ton -30
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA domestic market 5,780 yuan/ton 5,730 yuan/ton -50
Pure Terephthalic Acid PTA export market 730 $/ton 715 $/ton  

-15

 

Monoethyleneglycol MEG domestic market 4,555 yuan/ton 4,540 yuan/ton -15
Monoethyleneglycol MEG export market 535 $/ton 532 $/ton -3
Paraxylene PX FOB  Taiwan market

Naphtha rPET

1,016 $/ton 1,017 $/ton
+1
Paraxylene PX FOB  Korea market 994 $/ton 995 $/ton +1
Paraxylene PX FOB EU market 1,070 $/7on 1,050 $/ton -20
Polyester filament POY 150D/48F domestic market 7,580  yuan/ton 7,450 yuan/ton
-130
Recycled Polyester filament POY  domestic market 7,600 yuan/ton 7,600 yuan/ton
Polyester filament DTY 150D/48 F domestic market 8,900 yuan/ton 8,850 yuan/ton -50
Polyester filament FDY 68D24F

Naphtha rPET

8,950 yuan/ton 8,900 yuan/ton -50
Polyester filament FDY 150D/96F domestic market 8,230 yuan/ton 8,175 yuan/ton -55
Polyester staple fiber 1.4D 38mm domestic market 7,280 yuan/ton 7,280 yuan/ton
Caprolactam CPL domestic market 13,800 yuan/ton 13,600 yuan/ton
-200
Caprolactam CPL overseas  market 1,630 $/ton 1,630 $/ton
Nylon 6 chips overseas  market 1,880 $/ton 1,880 $/ton
Nylon 6 chips conventional spinning domestic  market 14,425 yuan/ton 14,300 yuan/ton -125
Nylon 6 chips  high speed spinning domestic  market

Naphtha rPET

15,050 yuan/ton 14,900 yuan/ton -150
Nylon 6.6 chips domestic  market 19,500 yuan/ton 19,700 yuan/ton +200
Nylon6 Filament POY 86D/24F domestic  market 17,100 yuan/ton 17,000 yuan/ton -100
Nylon6 Filament DTY 70D/24F domestic  market 19,250 yuan/ton 19,200 yuan/ton- -50
Nylon6 Filament FDY  70D/24F  17,850 yuan/ton 17,900 yuan/ton +50
Spandex 20D  domestic  market

Naphtha rPET

34,500 yuan/ton 34,500 yuan/ton
Spandex 30D  domestic  market 33,000 yuan/ton 33,000 yuan/ton
Spandex 40D  domestic  market  30,000 yuan/ton 30,000 yuan/ton
Adipic Acid domestic market 9,550 yuan/ton 9,700 yuan/ton +150
Benzene domestic market

Naphtha rPET

7,410 yuan/ton 7,560 yuan/ton +150
Benzene overseas  market 897 $/ton 939 $/ton +42
Ethylene South East market 850 $/ton 870 $/ton +20
Ethylene NWE market 744 $/ton 744 $/ton
Acrylonitrile ACN  domestic market

Naphtha rPET

9,700 yuan/ton 9,500 yuan/ton -200
Acrylonitrile ACN  overseas market 1,200 $/ton 1,200 $/ton
Acrylic staple fiber ASF  domestic market 14,600 yuan/ton 14,600 yuan/ton
Viscose Staple Fiber VSF  domestic market 12,650 yuan/ton 12,700 yuan/ton +50
PP Powder domestic market

Naphtha rPET

7,150 yuan/ton 7,150 yuan/ton
Naphtha overseas market  639 $/ton 662 $/ton +23
Phenol domestic market 7,227 yuan/ton 7,220 yuan/ton -7

r-PET high end eco-friendly chips =7,900 yuan/ton 7,900 yuan/ton   –

Naphtha rPET

Mercedes: Solid-State Batteries “May Not Be Necessary” Solid-state batteries? For Mercedes, they might no longer be necessary given the progress of lithium-ion batteries

The technology of solid-state batteries may not be essential for future electric vehicles, as developments in lithium-ion batteries are surprisingly improving their energy density. Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer of Mercedes, emphasized that these improvements were unexpected, putting lithium-ion batteries in direct competition with solid-state batteries in terms of cost and energy density.

Solid-state batteries? For Mercedes, they might no longer be necessary given the progress of lithium-ion batteries. The technology of solid-state batteries has long been considered the next big innovation for battery electric vehicles, praised for its supposed higher energy density and lower costs. However, according to Schäfer, he does not see them having “a significant cost advantage or an energy advantage,” as many efforts have been devoted to improving conventional cells, making them significantly more efficient.

Mercedes’ executive acknowledged a safety advantage in solid-state battery technology but indicated that significant developments are also expected in lithium-ion battery technology. In this competition, the two technologies are advancing in a “head-to-head race,” and Schäfer stated that he does not yet know the winner. Currently, solid-state technology no longer seems to be the “big breakthrough” and faces a “long, long development time.” Schäfer also confirmed that Mercedes has invested in startups working on this technology in the United States and Korea, and continues to closely monitor developments in this sector.

However, Schäfer noted that the “very optimistic predictions from some time ago” about the potential launch of solid-state battery technology remind him of predictions for autonomous driving. This refers to the fact that autonomous driving has experienced delays, and the industry has subsequently revised projections regarding its adoption. Therefore, we will see what innovations Mercedes brings to this matter.

Mercedes: Solid-State Batteries "May Not Be Necessary" Solid-state batteries? For Mercedes, they might no longer be necessary given the progress of lithium-ion batteries

Suez Canal attacks – All maritime navigation in danger on Suez Canal for Houthi attacks 15-01-2024

Suez Canal attacks

All maritime navigation in danger on Suez Canal for Houthi attacks

The Suez Canal, one of the world’s most important waterways for global trade, is facing a serious threat from the Houthi rebels in Yemen, who have launched a series of attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea. The attacks have caused major disruptions and delays for cargo and oil shipments, as well as increased security risks and costs for the maritime industry.

What are the Houthi attacks?

The Houthi rebels are an Iran-aligned group that have been fighting a civil war against the internationally recognized government of Yemen since 2014. They control most of the western coast of Yemen, including the port of Hodeidah, which gives them access to the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a narrow chokepoint that connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.  Suez Canal attacks

The Houthis have claimed responsibility for several attacks on ships in the Red Sea, using drones, missiles, and mines. They have said they are targeting ships linked to Israel or bound for Israeli ports, in solidarity with Hamas in its conflict with Israel in Gaza. However, many of the attacked ships have had no connection to Israel, and some have been carrying humanitarian aid or civilian passengers.

The Houthis have also seized a Japanese-operated vehicle carrier, the Galaxy Leader, on 19 November 2023, along with its 25 crew members. Suez Canal attacks

The ship is reportedly linked to an Israeli businessman, and the Houthis have demanded a ransom for its release.

How have the attacks affected the Suez Canal?

The Suez Canal is a vital artery for East-West trade, especially for oil and gas, as it allows ships to avoid the long and costly detour around Africa. About 19,000 ships pass through the canal every year, carrying about 12% of global trade by volume and 10% of global oil supply.

The Houthi attacks have created a security dilemma for the shipping companies and their customers, who have to weigh the risks and benefits of using the canal. Some have decided to divert their ships around the Cape of Good Hope, adding about 6,000 nautical miles and three or four weeks to their journey times.  Suez Canal attacks

Others have continued to use the canal, but with increased insurance premiums, security measures, and vigilance.

According to the shipping company Kuehne and Nagel, more than 100 container ships have already changed course to avoid the canal, with more expected to follow. The company said the diversion could reduce the global fleet capacity by 20%, leading to potential delays and shortages of goods and equipment. The disruption has also contributed to higher oil prices, which could affect consumer energy bills and inflation.

What is being done to stop the attacks?

The international community has condemned the Houthi attacks and called for an immediate end to the violence. The UN Security Council adopted a resolution on 10 January 2024, demanding the Houthis to release the Galaxy Leader and its crew, and to stop attacking ships in the Red Sea.  Suez Canal attacks

The resolution also noted the right of UN member states to defend their vessels from attack, in accordance with international law.

The US has taken the lead in forming a naval coalition, called Operation Prosperity Guardian, to protect the shipping in the Suez Canal and the Gulf of Aden from the Houthi attacks. The coalition includes the UK, France, Germany, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and other countries. The coalition’s warships have intercepted and destroyed several Houthi drones and missiles, and have provided escort and surveillance for the commercial ships.

The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, said the coalition was ready to take further action if the attacks continued, and warned the Houthis that they were “playing with fire”. He also urged them to return to the peace talks with the Yemeni government, which have been stalled since 2019.  Suez Canal attacks

The Houthi rebels, however, have shown no sign of backing down, and have vowed to continue their attacks until Israel stops its aggression in Gaza. They have also accused the coalition of supporting the Saudi-led military intervention in Yemen, which has caused a humanitarian crisis and killed tens of thousands of civilians.

The situation in the Red Sea remains tense and volatile, as the Houthi attacks pose a serious challenge to the stability and security of the region and the world. The Suez Canal, which has been a symbol of global connectivity and cooperation for over a century, is now at the center of a complex and dangerous conflict.

Suez Canal attacks

Polyester BCF-yarns – NEVEON has successfully finalized the sale of its OEM automotive business to the Trèves Group of France 15-01-2024

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Suez Canal attacks

Polyester BCF-yarns – All maritime navigation in danger on Suez Canal for Houthi attacks 15-01-2024

Polyester BCF-yarns

Naphtha rPET – Mercedes: Solid-State Batteries “May Not Be Necessary” Solid-state batteries? For Mercedes, they might no longer be necessary given the progress of lithium-ion batteries 

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Polyester BCF-yarns

Crude Oil Prices Trend 

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

Crude Oil Prices Trend by Polyestertime

All maritime navigation in danger on Suez Canal for Houthi attacks

The Suez Canal, one of the world’s most important waterways for global trade, is facing a serious threat from the Houthi rebels in Yemen, who have launched a series of attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea. The attacks have caused major disruptions and delays for cargo and oil shipments, as well as increased security risks and costs for the maritime industry.

What are the Houthi attacks?

The Houthi rebels are an Iran-aligned group that have been fighting a civil war against the internationally recognized government of Yemen since 2014. They control most of the western coast of Yemen, including the port of Hodeidah, which gives them access to the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a narrow chokepoint that connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.  Polyester BCF-yarnsSuez Canal attacks

The Houthis have claimed responsibility for several attacks on ships in the Red Sea, using drones, missiles, and mines. They have said they are targeting ships linked to Israel or bound for Israeli ports, in solidarity with Hamas in its conflict with Israel in Gaza. However, many of the attacked ships have had no connection to Israel, and some have been carrying humanitarian aid or civilian passengers.

The Houthis have also seized a Japanese-operated vehicle carrier, the Galaxy Leader, on 19 November 2023, along with its 25 crew members. Suez Canal attacks

The ship is reportedly linked to an Israeli businessman, and the Houthis have demanded a ransom for its release. Polyester BCF-yarns

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Polyester BCF-yarns

B.I.G. Yarns, A New European Producer Of PET BCF Yarns For Automotive Carpet

To expand its support for high-end and luxurious automotive interiors, B.I.G. Yarns has completed its first industrial production runs of virgin polyester BCF yarns for automotive carpet to complement its line of polyamide PA6 superior yarns.

There is a growing market in PET for automotive interior applications, with polyester allowing automotive OEMs and Tier 1 to develop products that, from the outset, consider eco-design by building MONO-polymer carpets and flooring that are 100% recyclable at End of Life (EOL ). Polyester BCF-yarns

These materials are helping to ensure improved and more sustainable EOL recycling of electric vehicles that are driving the future of the car industry.

The new PET BCF Yarns offer high-performance for automotive carpets, including abrasion and stain resistance, and durability, passing all stringent automotive tests including the Taber test for abrasion performance, compressibility and recovery ability test, light fastness in automotive (DIN EN ISO 105-B06) and VOC (fogging) according the VDA 278 test on VOC and FOG emission. The yarns can be color solution dyed, have a dTex between 1300 – 1500, 81 filaments and are ideally for mats with a composition of 400 to 800 gram per m², while the yarns for molded carpets have a dTex of 1200, 144 filaments for 380 gram per m².  Polyester BCF-yarns

“As the industry continues its transition towards circularity, making the right material choice is crucial from the outset to ensure the best possible eco-design and recyclability. Our newcomer, PET BCF yarns, brings virgin material to automotive carpets, creating a new systemic approach towards MONO-polymer-based automotive applications,” said Glenn Hyzak, Global Sales Director Yarns.

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Polyester BCF-yarns

Stellantis Ventures, the venture capital fund of Stellantis N.V., has announced its strategic investment in Tiamat, a French company specializing in sodium-ion battery technology

Sodium-ion batteries are anticipated to bring about cost reductions, increased sustainability, improved low-temperature performance, and faster charging capacity compared to current lithium-ion battery technology.

This investment aligns with Stellantis’ commitment to providing clean, safe, and affordable mobility as part of its Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan. The Dare Forward 2030 plan focuses on achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2038 and emphasizes electric propulsion as a key pillar.  Polyester BCF-yarns

The sodium-ion battery technology developed by Tiamat is highlighted for its lower cost per kilowatt-hour and the absence of lithium and cobalt. The abundance of sodium as a raw material is seen as a strategic advantage, offering greater sustainability and reducing dependence on scarce resources.

Ned Curic, Chief Engineering and Technology Officer of Stellantis, emphasized the importance of finding sustainable and affordable battery options as part of their strategic plan. The goal is to meet customer expectations for zero-emission vehicles that provide autonomy, performance, and convenience.  Polyester BCF-yarns

As part of the Dare Forward 2030 plan, Stellantis aims to transition to electric propulsion, targeting 100% of Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) passenger car sales in Europe and 50% in the United States for both BEV passenger cars and light commercial vehicles by 2030. To achieve this, Stellantis is securing approximately 400 GWh of battery capacity and investing in various alternative energy storage technologies.

Tiamat, a spin-off of the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS), plans to use the investment to construct a sodium-ion battery plant in France. Initially, the batteries will be used for electrical appliances and stationary storage applications, with plans to expand production for second-generation products specific to Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) in the future.  Polyester BCF-yarns

The investment in Tiamat is part of Stellantis’ broader strategy to support innovation in battery technologies and move towards a zero-carbon emission future.

Polyester BCF-yarns

NEVEON has successfully finalized the sale of its OEM automotive business to the Trèves Group of France, following the receipt of antitrust approval on December 31, 2023

The economic transition of the divested entities, which include Greiner Perfoam GmbH in Enns and Linz (Austria), Greiner Perfoam s.r.o. in Tabor and Valašské Meziříči (Czechia), Greiner Perfoam Automotive Components, S. de R.L. de C.V. in Mexico, and the joint ventures Shen-yang Greiner Automotive Components Co., Ltd. and Tianjin Greiner Automotive Components in China, is now complete.  Polyester BCF-yarns

This strategic move signifies NEVEON’s exit from the OEM automotive sector, allowing the company to concentrate on its vertically integrated foam core business in Living & Care (mattresses, upholstered furniture, and healthcare applications) and Mobility & Specialties (including Aviation, Railway, and various specialized foam applications such as boiler insulations, technical foams, and composite foams).

Simultaneously, Henning Frings, aged 35, assumes the role of Executive Vice President for the Mobility & Specialties business unit. He replaces Martin Etzlstorfer, who remains in his position as Managing Director of Perfoam within the Trèves Group. Jürgen Kleinrath, NEVEON’s CEO, expresses confidence in Frings, recognizing his exceptional management skills and welcoming his appointment from within the company.  Polyester BCF-yarns

Frings, who holds an MBA from the University of St. Gallen, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at international companies such as Amcor Flexibles, Jindal Films, and Edelmann Group. Having joined NEVEON in 2020 as Director of Corporate Development and later becoming the General Manager for Aviation & Railway in 2022, Frings expresses eagerness to contribute to NEVEON’s success in his new role, overseeing areas like Aviation, Railway, Turnkey Solutions, and Base Materials.

Polymer Process, a prominent authority in the field of polymer technology, has recently unveiled an extensive examination elucidating the revolutionary impact and diverse applications of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs)

This groundbreaking analysis provides in-depth insights into the distinctive properties and chemical composition of SAPs, spotlighting their exceptional capacity to absorb and retain substantial amounts of water.  Polyester BCF-yarns

Key Observations from Polymer Process’s Study

Unprecedented Water Absorption and Retention: SAPs exhibit the remarkable capability to absorb and retain significant quantities of water, distinguishing them across various industries.

Diverse Types with Distinctive Characteristics: The study accentuates various types of superabsorbent polymers, each tailored with unique features catering to specific applications.  Polyester BCF-yarns

Chemical Composition: Predominantly composed of polyacrylate compounds, SAPs contribute to their elevated absorbency and operational efficiency.

Porous Architecture for Liquid Absorption: The review elucidates how the porous structure of SAPs plays a pivotal role in facilitating effective liquid absorption.

Versatile Applications: Superabsorbent polymers find diverse applications in agriculture, personal care, industrial processes, and waste management, showcasing their adaptability across sectors.  Polyester BCF-yarns

Revolutionizing Industries through Advanced Polymer Technology

Polymer Process’s comprehensive review underscores the transformative impact of superabsorbent polymers on contemporary technology and industry. In agriculture, SAPs play a crucial role in water conservation and enhancing crop yields. Within personal care products like diapers and adult incontinence items, SAPs contribute to heightened comfort and absorbency.

In industrial settings, SAPs facilitate fluid control and spill management, while in waste management, they aid in containing and processing liquid waste. The review accentuates the potential of SAPs to revolutionize these sectors through innovative applications and sustainable practices, positioning them as key players in the advancement of modern industries.  Polyester BCF-yarns

Polymer Process, a prominent authority in the field of polymer technology, has recently unveiled an extensive examination elucidating the revolutionary impact and diverse applications of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs)

Prime Minister Edi Rama has elucidated that the textile industry’s crisis cannot be solely attributed to the appreciation of the Lek and the depreciation of the Euro in the currency exchange

He stressed that viewing the predicament through the lens of currency fluctuations is fundamentally flawed. Rama dismissed the notion that the crisis arose solely due to the strengthened Lek and the resultant shift in the Euro’s dynamics, asserting that relying on labor as a competitive advantage is an antiquated strategy.  Polyester BCF-yarns

In urging a paradigm shift, the government leader emphasized that fashion companies must alter their approach, cautioning against expecting governmental intervention in the form of “serums.” Rama emphatically declared that no magical remedy exists, and taxing measures cannot artificially prolong the life of an unsustainable entity. He characterized the industry’s plight as a form of clinical death but underscored that solutions exist for entrepreneurs willing to adapt and change the game.

The Prime Minister emphasized the need for resilience and adaptation, citing examples within the industry where successful transformations have occurred. He highlighted that these changes are not merely theoretical discussions but tangible instances where actors within the textile sector have embraced adaptation, becoming competitive entities in the contemporary market.  Polyester BCF-yarns

Prime Minister Edi Rama has elucidated that the textile industry's crisis cannot be solely attributed to the appreciation of the Lek and the depreciation of the Euro in the currency exchange

Technology allows for fibers to be separated and re-used

Recycling used by still-usable clothing is a great thing – but when textiles are torn, hopelessly dirty or worn, they have to be thrown out. Many types of clothing today can’t be recycled because natural fibers like cotton or wool are mixed with synthetic ones, and they have to be burned or buried.  Polyester BCF-yarns

When you go running in the woods in your running tights, elastane — also known as spandex or Lycra, a synthetic fiber that is exceptionally stretchable – is often used in combination with other fibers. That is why athletic wear fits you so comfortably; is adopts to your body.

But when these synthetic fibers are mixed with cotton, wool, nylon or others, as is the case in many clothes today, the clothes become almost impossible to recycle. It is extremely difficult to separate out the different ones.

This may change, says Assistant Prof. Steffan Kvist Kristensen from the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center at Denmark’s Aarhus University.  Polyester BCF-yarns

Together with a number of colleagues, he is behind a new technology that can separate out fibers in mixed fabrics. They just published their findings in the journal Green Chemistry under the title “Selective chemical disassembly of elastane fibers and polyurethane coatings in textiles.”

“We’ve developed a method to remove elastane completely from nylon. We’re not quite there yet with cotton, because some of the cotton fibers are broken down in the process, but we believe that, with some minor adjustments, we can solve this problem,” he declared. “In other words, we can disassemble the fabric so that we can recycle far more textiles in the future.”  Polyester BCF-yarns

Is it easy to separate fibers?

It is not easy to separate elastane and other fibers once they’ve been woven together. Clothing is made by winding the main fibers such as nylon or cotton around the elastane fibers, which consist of long chains of molecules. The fibers break apart only if we break the long chains of molecules, Kristensen, explained.

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Technology allows for fibers to be separated and re-used

Gasification-of-tires – Lummus Technology has announced a significant investment in Resynergi, a trailblazer in plastic recycling technology 13-01-2024

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