The new process allows the recycling of silicon flakes, a combination of EVA laminate, silicon-based semiconductors and metals, in an economic and environmentally sound manner. The advanced process is currently being applied at one of PV CYCLE’s Europe-based recycling partners for silicon-PV modules. 

“Our recent breakthrough in silicon-PV recycling is the result of both continuous improvement and intensive research and development along the value chain”, said Olmina Della Monica, Head of Treatment & Operations at PV CYCLE Association. 

PV CYCLE claims to have a current average recycling rates of 90% for silicon based and up to 97% for non-silicon based PV modules. All types of PV technologies are equally suitable for recycling, according to the company. PV module recycling allows the recovery of various raw materials and helps conserve natural resources. Today, glass, aluminum, copper, plastics from the cables and junction box, certain semiconductors as well as silver can be recycled. Other materials such as EVA plastics go into energy recovery.