Can a hydrometallurgical process be used to manage EOL PV panels?

Based on circular economy, a new hydrometallurgical process has been proposed for the management of the EoL PVs. This results in a chemical extract containing 0.7% w/w Ag, along with various other metals. This study investigates the MFC technology as an alternative method for valuable metal recovery from the chemical extract of PV panels.

Can a hydrometallurgical process be used to manage photovoltaic panels?

Many photovoltaic (PV) panels that were installed during this technological revolution, have accumulated as waste and even more are nearing their End-of-Life (EoL). Based on circular economy, a new hydrometallurgical process has been proposed for the management of the EoL PVs.

What is the purity of silver in photovoltaic panels?

Nevertheless, silver can be 100% retrieved from the chemical extract, with a purity of 68–96% w/w (average 86% w/w), in crystal (face center cube) structure, containing minor metal impurities. Many photovoltaic panels (PVs), have accumulated as a waste and even more PVs are nearing their End-of-Life (EoL).

Can crystalline Si & Ag photovoltaic panels be recovered from end of life?

This work proposes an integrated process flowsheet for the recovery of pure crystalline Si and Ag from end of life (EoL) Si photovoltaic (PV) panels consisting of a primary thermal treatment, followed by downstream hydrometallurgical processes.

How are EOL Si PV panels recycled?

EoL Si PV panels are recycled; this includes the recycling of Al frames and glass by induction melting; the separation of Ag and Si through salt etching; and the recovery of Cu, Pb and Sn from solders using a combined oxidation, alkaline leaching and electrochemical deposition method (Fig. 1).

What is thermal treatment of Si PV panels?

The thermal treatment of the Si PV panels aims to decompose the EVA adhesive resin and to subsequently separate the main parts of the PVs i.e. glass, silicon cells, metal ribbons-electrodes.