High temperature treatment process for waste photovoltaic panels

How is PV waste treated?

Fiandra et al. (2023) proposed a mechanical approach for PV waste treatment, in which some parts of spent panels, such as the aluminum frame, were removed by using a hard plastic hammer, and afterwards, each module was subjected to the treatment process.

Is thermal plasma pyrolysis a promising treatment technique for discarded solar panels?

Each proposed treatment technique pollutes the environment and underutilizes the potential resources present in discarded solar panels (DSPs). This review recommends thermal plasma pyrolysis as a promising treatment technology.

Why is photovoltaic waste management important?

With the fast increase in solar energy production, photovoltaic waste management will become critical considering the million tons of EoL panels and a crucial part of the materials availability and circular economy.

How are discarded solar panels treated?

Some studies have reported different treatment technologies, including pyrolysis, stabilization, physical separation, landfill, and the use of chemicals. Each proposed treatment technique pollutes the environment and underutilizes the potential resources present in discarded solar panels (DSPs).