Page 60 - Plastics News February 2026
P. 60
PRODUCT NEWS
manufactured in the United States with a se- economic growth in Northeast Ohio.
cure supply chain from allied nations, reduc-
ing dependence on foreign supply chains. The Greater Akron Polymer Innovation Hub,
These purpose-built nanolayered solutions en- supported by a $31.3M award from the State of
able breakthroughs across critical industries — Ohio and $10.4M in local matching funds, invests
strengthening American energy independence, in polymer pilot facility, industry driven R&D,
leadership, and national security. startup support, and workforce development,
with a focus on ensuring circularity of chemi-
The Polymer Industry Cluster (PIC) is an indus- cals, plastics, and elastomers. It aims to position
try driven consortium powered by the Greater the region as a national leader powering strong,
Akron Chamber that addresses shared polymer sustainable growth, supply chain resilience, and
challenges requiring collaborative action and world-class innovation in sustainable polymers
open innovation. With more than 50 member or- and advanced materials.
ganizations across the polymer value chain, the Source - https://www.plasticstoday.com
PIC is working to drive collective problem-solv-
ing along with talent attraction, job creation, and
RECYCLED RESIN MARKETS BEGIN YEAR
WITH CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM
his observations with PlasticsToday.
Recycled PET
US demand for recycled polyethylene tereph-
thalate (rPET) remains steady, but it is expected
to strengthen as seasonal trends drive renewed
buying interest, according to Fisher. “Excess in-
ventories from Q4 have largely been cleared,
which should further support increased purchas-
ing activity in the near term,” said Fisher.
ow that excess Q4 inventories have
been cleared, ICIS analyst expects to US PET bale prices are steady, with ample sup-
Nsee a slight increase in volumes, but ply to meet current demand levels. Some bale
there are some caveats. suppliers reported a noticeable uptick in inquir-
ies at the start of the year, signaling potential
Demand for recycled resin is relatively stable demand improvement, added Fisher.
across the board, with pricing structures follow-
ing suit. There are some nuances, however, ac- Spot rPET domestic flake pricing is stable, while
cording to Craig Fisher, senior recycled plastics imported flake volumes remain present but
editor at market intelligence firm ICIS. He shared somewhat limited, as tariff costs and competi-
60 PLASTICS NEWS February 2026
