Speaker
Description
Copper-Indium-Gallium-di-Selenide or CIGS panels are one of the promising alternatives in the market for thin-film solar technologies. CIGS panels are lightweight, durable and use less semiconductor materials as compared to Si-based PV modules [1, 2]. According to EU CRM materials report 2023, indium gallium and copper which are raw materials for CIGS panels are rated as critical or strategic materials subject to their high supply risk and moderate economic importance [3]. The development of robust recycling methodologies for copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) photovoltaic panels and associated production waste presents a viable pathway towards securing the supply of critical raw materials (CRMs). While a range of recycling processes have been explored, many current approaches demonstrate limitations. Specifically, challenges remain in achieving both efficient material separation and high material purity within a single process. Furthermore, certain methodologies necessitate operation under highly toxic conditions, resulting in the generation of secondary waste streams which require further management. Within this research electrochemical leaching for separation and recovery of materials from CIGS solar panels is studied. The scope of study is to determine efficiency of semicomductor coating separation from glass in H3C-SO2-OH (Methanesulphonic Acid). Using ICP-OES/MS and XPS techniques the dissolution and de-coating efficiencies are calculated. The investigation includes the observing effective separation of the glass and coating material at different acid concentrations in novel drum electrode[4].Furthremore, studies have been conducted to recover Cu from mixed CRMs solution in high purity. Purity upto 98% for Cu was achieved. Further optimisation of parametes is needed to improve purity and yeild. Within the study, sustainability analysis of the processes from ecological, safety and social aspects are briefly discussed.
References
[1] A. M. Gustafsson, "Recycling of CIGS solar cell waste materials," Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg Sweden, 2014.
[2] J. Cartwright, "Better, more versatile silicon-free solar cell technologies," Horizon: The EU research and Innovation Magazine, 16 10 2013. [Online]. Available: https://ec.europa.eu/research-and-innovation/en/horizon-magazine/better-more-versatile-silicon-free-solar-cell-technologies. [Accessed 08 10 2022].
[3] European Commission, "Study on the EU's list of Critical Raw Materials 2023," European Commission, Brussels, 2023.
[4] H. Khadse; Choi, B.; D’Souza, A.; Wickleder, M.; Beck G. Rotary drum electrode for electrochemical recycling of composite materials, FEMS Euromat, 2023
