Title : Sustainable recovery of materials from end-of-life photovoltaic panels
Abstract:
The rapid global expansion of solar energy has drawn attention to the challenge of managing end-of-life (EOL) photovoltaic (PV) panels. With growing volumes approaching retirement, developing sustainable recycling strategies is essential to reduce environmental risks and recover valuable resources. Conventional modules are difficult to recycle due to multilayered back sheet polymers, particularly those containing fluorinated compounds that release harmful emissions during processing.
Bifacial solar panels, an increasingly common technology, differ structurally as they lack a polymer back sheet and rely solely on ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) as the encapsulant. This design simplifies recycling and offers opportunities for more efficient and environmentally responsible recovery of materials.
This study introduces an optimized thermal treatment using a modified pyrolysis reactor operated under inert conditions. The approach effectively degrades EVA with minimal emissions, allowing recovery of clean glass, reusable solar cells, copper tape, and a polymerized oil. Process conditions were refined through Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Box–Behnken Design (BBD), yielding a significant fraction of polymerized oil at controlled heating rates and temperatures. Characterization of the oil using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) confirmed properties suitable for lubricant and fuel-related applications, aligning with relevant standards.
By tailoring recycling solutions to the unique structure of bifacial panels, this research demonstrates how solar waste can be transformed into a resource stream that directly supports circular economy principles. Beyond minimizing environmental impact, the process highlights a pathway to reintroduce recovered materials into manufacturing and energy applications. Such innovation ensures that the growth of renewable energy technologies is complemented by equally sustainable end-of-life solutions, reinforcing the long-term viability of solar power systems.
