Recovery of Valuable Materials and Methods for Their Management When Recycling Thin-Film CdTe Photovoltaic Modules

Abstract

Due to the development of new photovoltaic technologies, there is a need to research new recycling methods for these new materials. The recovery of metals from photovoltaic (PV) modules would reduce the consumption of raw materials. Therefore, the development of recycling technologies for used and damaged modules of newer generations is important for environmental reasons. The aim of the research is to shed light on the nature of the chemical reactions that occur in recycling technology for second-generation photovoltaic modules. This work is focused mainly on cells made of Cadmium Telluride (CdTe). It was proven that prior thermal delamination was necessary. Moreover, an improvement in understanding of the recovery process depending on used leaching solution was achieved.

Comparing the net-energy balance of standalone photovoltaic-coupled electrolysis and photoelectrochemical hydrogen production

“…Both materials are thin films that require separation from glass, chemical leaching into solution, and then isolation by, for example, electrochemical means. 116,117 The recycling of CdTe thin films has been thoroughly studied due to the high value of tellurium and high toxicity of cadmium, leading to the European Commission to regulate their waste treatment. 118 Under extensive recycling, an average of 23% net energy savings was reported (∼270 MJ m −2 in savings compared to 1190 MJ m −2 for CdTe PV modules with no recycling).…”

Review of Building Integrated Photovoltaics System for Electric Vehicle Charging

“…to integrate other disciplines, such as electrochemistry. [23] They offer various advantages, including less performance loss in overcast, gloomy weather and partial shadowing from obstructions, [24,25] the use of less expensive semiconductor materials, resulting in lower production costs, fabrication of transparent or translucent modules using laser scribing. [26,27] Amorphous solar cells fabricated from amorphous silicon are less costly and more widely accessible.…”

“…Despite their lower efficiency, they have greater mechanical qualities that make them appropriate for various applications [22] . Although the original generation of solar cells was an example of microelectronics, the development of thin films necessitated new growth processes, allowing the industry to integrate other disciplines, such as electrochemistry [23] . They offer various advantages, including less performance loss in overcast, gloomy weather and partial shadowing from obstructions, [24,25] the use of less expensive semiconductor materials, resulting in lower production costs, fabrication of transparent or translucent modules using laser scribing [26,27] …”

End-of-Life Photovoltaic Modules

“…Doing so recovers 96% pure telluride while cadmium is left behind. Additionally, highly concentrated nitric acid requires a high-temperature environment of 60 to 80 • C to work, inevitably producing nitrate smoke [77].…”