Waste photovoltaic panel pyrolysis furnace

What happens during pyrolysis of silicon PV solar modules?

During the thermal treatment (pyrolysis) of silicon PV solar modules, hazardous byproducts could get released into the environment. In a study reported earlier, the PV module is placed inside a closed furnace and heated at 500 °C for pyrolysis, and complete degradation of the encapsulant (EVA) is achieved .

How pyrolysis of PV modules can reduce the environmental impact?

Based study reported herein, we can suggest that, one can go with the pyrolysis of modules at 500 °C after removing the backsheet, followed by the pyrolysis gas passing through the water bubble to minimize the exhaust gas impact on the environment. Further the recycled glass may re-use for fabrication/lamination of new PV module.

How does PV module pyrolysis work?

In a study reported earlier, the PV module is placed inside a closed furnace and heated at 500 °C for pyrolysis, and complete degradation of the encapsulant (EVA) is achieved . Later the trapped gases were analyzed to quantify the release of metals, if any.

Is solar-assisted pyrolysis feasible?

The requirement of energy input for proper decomposition of feed materials, environmental sustainability, cost and complexity of reactor design, and cost of heating the feed materials are the major parameters for investigating the feasibility of solar-assisted pyrolysis implementation.

Can a pyrolysis furnace recover high purity silicon & silver?

French start-up Rosi Solar has developed an industrial solution claimed to be capable of recovering high purity silicon, silver and copper contained in end-of-life PV modules. The company’s technology is based on a pyrolysis process that makes it possible to isolate the different metals from the cells. The pyrolysis furnace used by Rosi Solar.

Can solar-assisted heating reactor be used in pyrolysis?

Furthermore, the chapter presents the issues and challenges of conventional heating of reactor during thermal decomposition of biomass. The background of solar heating and different approaches along with its updated design concepts are presented to give attention for integrating solar-assisted heating reactor in pyrolysis.