North American price changes for polystyrene and PET bottle resin are featured in this week's Material Insights video. Regional PS prices moved up an average of 1 cent per pound in May, while prices for PET bottle resin slid an average of 2 cents per pound. The PS move affects both high-impact and crystal grades of the material. PS demand has decreased slightly this year, while feedstock costs moved up slightly in May. In PET, demand and feedstocks both have declined, leading to a 2-month price drop of 5 cents in April and May. A bioplastics production deal also is featured in this week's video. Standridge Color recently began making bioplastics materials for Danimer Scientific at a plant in the Czech Republic. Both firms are based in Georgia and have worked on bioplastics projects together for several years. The video wraps up with news that MVC Capital has bought a minority stake in bioplastics firm Biovation Holdings. Biovation uses corn and soybeans to make materials that can be extruded into flat sheet or rolls. MVC Capital's investment will be at least $1.5 million and could be just over $3 million if certain financial goals are met.
N. American PET bottle resin prices fall 7 cents
May 20, 2013 12:18 pm ET
