Process optimization studies of essential parameters in the organic solvent method for the recycling of waste crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules

Abstract

Improper disposal of waste solar panels can raise serious concerns about the environment and human health. Therefore, it is important to recycle the waste panels to ensure that the modules do not pollute the environment. Different techniques developed globally for the recycling of waste photovoltaic modules include organic solvent dissolution, electro-thermal heating, and thermal treatment. The present study is focused particularly on the optimization of the parameters to identify i) an efficient solvent for the dissolution of the encapsulant, ii) position of the module for improved dissolution, iii) the effect of temperature variation on solubility, and iv) saturation studies of EVA. It is concluded that Trichloroethylene at 70 °C works effectively for the separation of different components with the ratio of 1:7.44 of the module to solvent in a horizontal position. The maximum percentage of a module in the solvent is 13.44% and an increase in this percentage will result in an ineffective separation. A novelty approach has been reported for the first time to experimentally determine the quantity of solvent, position of the module, and the lowest temperature required for encapsulant dissolution. • Novel approach to determine the quantity of solvent required for given module. • The lowest temperature for effective EVA dissolution has been suggested. • A suitable solvent and the position of module have been suggested.