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Advancements and Challenges in Photovoltaic Cell Recycling: A Comprehensive Review

Author

Listed:
  • Eva Gerold

    (Department Metallurgy, Chair of Nonferrous Metallurgy, Montanuniversität Leoben, 8700 Leoben, Austria)

  • Helmut Antrekowitsch

    (Department Metallurgy, Chair of Nonferrous Metallurgy, Montanuniversität Leoben, 8700 Leoben, Austria)

Abstract

This review examines the complex landscape of photovoltaic (PV) module recycling and outlines the challenges hindering widespread adoption and efficiency. Technological complexities resulting from different module compositions, different recycling processes and economic hurdles are significant barriers. Inadequate infrastructure, regulatory gaps and limited awareness are also hampering progress. In addition, this analysis draws parallels between the development of PV module recycling and recycling technologies for other high-tech products, such as lithium-ion batteries, highlighting similarities in regulatory and technical feasibility challenges. Amid these challenges, however, lie opportunities for a sustainable future. Technological advances, stakeholder collaboration and the adoption of circular economy principles emerge as key ways forward. This review highlights the need for concerted action to overcome barriers and drive the development of efficient and sustainable PV module recycling practices.

Suggested Citation

  • Eva Gerold & Helmut Antrekowitsch, 2024. "Advancements and Challenges in Photovoltaic Cell Recycling: A Comprehensive Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(6), pages 1-18, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:6:p:2542-:d:1360282
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Klugmann-Radziemska, Ewa & Ostrowski, Piotr, 2010. "Chemical treatment of crystalline silicon solar cells as a method of recovering pure silicon from photovoltaic modules," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 35(8), pages 1751-1759.
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    Cited by:

    1. Parascanu, Maria Magdalena & Keiner, Dominik & Breyer, Christian & Macé, Philippe & Lizasoain-Arteaga, Esther, 2025. "Comprehensive prospective environmental assessment of innovative photovoltaic technologies: Integration into electricity grids in Finland, Germany, and Spain," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 315(C).
    2. Mukwevho, Nehemiah & Mkhohlakali, Andile & Ntsasa, Napo & Sehata, James & Chimuka, Luke & Tshilongo, James & Letsoalo, Mokgehle R., 2025. "Methodological approaches for resource recovery from end-of-life panels of different generations of photovoltaic technologies – A review," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 207(C).
    3. Ana-María Diez-Suarez & Marta Martínez-Benavides & Cristina Manteca Donado & Jorge-Juan Blanes-Peiró & Elia Judith Martínez Torres, 2024. "Recycling of Silicon-Based Photovoltaic Modules: Mediterranean Region Insight," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(23), pages 1-44, November.

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