Design of decomposition scheme for scrapped photovoltaic panels

Can discarded silicon-based photovoltaic panels be recycled?

The increasing scrapped Si-based photovoltaic (PV) panels has become an urgent problem, and their disposal is essential for resources utilization and environment issues. This paper proposes a comprehensive process for recycling of discarded silicon-based PV panels economically, environmentally, and efficiently.

What is the recycling process for silicon-based PV panels?

In this review article, the complete recycling process is systematically summarized into two main sections: disassembly and delamination treatment for silicon-based PV panels, involving physical, thermal, and chemical treatment, and the retrieval of valuable metals (silicon, silver, copper, tin, etc.).

How to recycle discarded PV panels?

Regarding the specific recycling process, there are three main difficulties in recycling discarded PV panels: component separation, purification of Si, and recovery of Cu strips. Firstly, in terms of component separation, the primary step is the elimination of EVA, as it binds the various layers together.

Will solar PV module waste be repurposed by 2040?

The estimated cumulative worldwide solar PV module waste (tonnes) 2016–2050 [13, 14]. 7. Conclusion Based on the swift growth in the installed PV generation capacity, we propose that the number of EOL panels will necessitate a strategy for recycling and recovery which need to be established by 2040.

How to deal with solar PV waste material?

Therefore, the methods of dealing with solar PV waste material, principally by recycling need to be established by 2040. By recycling solar PV panels EOL and reusing them to make new solar panels, the actual number of waste (i.e., not recycled panels) could be considerably reduced.

Are photovoltaic solar modules a waste management challenge?

The increasing deployment of photovoltaic modules poses the challenge of waste management. Heath et al. review the status of end-of of-life management of silicon solar modules and recommend research and development priorities to facilitate material recovery and recycling of solar modules.