PVReValue – Holistic recycling of photovoltaic modules

The PVReValue research project is pursuing a new approach to the holistic recycling of photovoltaic modules, based on an innovative multi-stage composite separation process that is being developed in the course of the project. The multi-stage separation process and the novel combination of modern treatment processes are expected to achieve a recycling rate of more than 95 wt.-%.

Short Description

Starting point / motivation

The globally installed PV capacity exceeded the 1,000 GW mark in 2022. In Austria, installed capacity already exceeded 2 GW in 2020 and is experiencing high growth rates. Currently, there are still low amounts for end-of-life (EoL) PV modules, but a strong increase is expected in the next few years, for which it is necessary to be prepared accordingly.

Contents and goals

In the PVReValue research project, the scientific and technical basis for a complete processing and recycling process for PV modules is being researched and developed, building on existing research results. The aim of the project is to develop a holistic process for PV modules - consisting of the steps (1) input characterization, (2) compound separation, (3) further processing, (4) output characterization and (5) recycling of the output fractions - in order to achieve a recycling rate of more than 95% by weight.

Methodological approach

The innovation content lies on the one hand in the multi-stage compound separation, which causes a pre-fractionation of the fractions to be further processed; on the other hand in the complex combination of further processing methods for the recovered fractions. The high quality of the process starts with the input characterization, whereby modules can be selectively charged and output qualities can be modeled and adjusted accordingly. The project thus generates high-quality recyclable secondary raw materials in the sense of a functioning circular economy.

Expected results

Compared to existing recycling technologies, the glass fraction is to be recovered undamaged on the one hand in order to enable material recycling. On the other hand, the metals as well as the silicon contained and the various plastics are to be processed in such a way that reasonable material recycling is possible and a recycling rate of more than 95 wt.-% can be achieved.

Project Partners

Project management

Thomas Nigl

Institute/Company

Montanuniversität Leoben – Chair of Waste Processing Technology and Waste Management

Contact Address

Thomas Nigl
Montanuniversität Leoben – Chair of Waste Processing Technology and Waste Management
Franz-Josef-Straße 18
8700 Leoben

thomas.nigl@unileoben.ac.at
+43 3842 402 5124
www.avaw-unileoben.at