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Investigating the Technical Reuse Potential of Crystalline Photovoltaic Modules with Regard to a Recycling Alternative

Author

Listed:
  • Anna Katharina Schnatmann

    (Institute for Technical Energy Systems (ITES), Hochschule Bielefeld—University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany)

  • Tobi Reimers

    (Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Hochschule Bielefeld—University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany)

  • Erik Hüdepohl

    (Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Hochschule Bielefeld—University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany)

  • Jonah Umlauf

    (Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Hochschule Bielefeld—University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany)

  • Pia Kleinebekel

    (Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Hochschule Bielefeld—University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany)

  • Fabian Schoden

    (Institute for Technical Energy Systems (ITES), Hochschule Bielefeld—University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany)

  • Eva Schwenzfeier-Hellkamp

    (Institute for Technical Energy Systems (ITES), Hochschule Bielefeld—University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany)

Abstract

Photovoltaics (PV) is a key pillar of renewable energy supply. However, the climate and resource crisis make it necessary to implement further optimizations toward a circular economy in the PV industry. One strategy for saving resources and lowering carbon dioxide emissions is the reuse of modules (second-life PV). As part of this work, various tests were carried out with crystalline modules from two different manufacturers. The modules had already been transported to a recycling company and were originally intended for recycling. The measurements carried out provide a comprehensive assessment of the condition of the PV modules. In total, five different measurement methods were used, two of which related to short-term measurements under controlled laboratory conditions and three to long-term assessments under real conditions. The investigation illustrated that modules from the recycling company have potential for reuse. However, it also showed that a clearly differentiated classification system is necessary due to module age- and environmental conditions-related degradation. Qualification and further long-term measurements should be implemented using a combination of measurement methods.

Suggested Citation

  • Anna Katharina Schnatmann & Tobi Reimers & Erik Hüdepohl & Jonah Umlauf & Pia Kleinebekel & Fabian Schoden & Eva Schwenzfeier-Hellkamp, 2024. "Investigating the Technical Reuse Potential of Crystalline Photovoltaic Modules with Regard to a Recycling Alternative," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(3), pages 1-17, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:3:p:958-:d:1324537
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Kirchherr, Julian & Reike, Denise & Hekkert, Marko, 2017. "Conceptualizing the circular economy: An analysis of 114 definitions," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 127(C), pages 221-232.
    2. Waqar Akram, M. & Li, Guiqiang & Jin, Yi & Chen, Xiao, 2022. "Failures of Photovoltaic modules and their Detection: A Review," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 313(C).
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