PVReValue: Photovoltaic Recycling Using Electrodynamic Fragmentation at the Chair of Mineral Processing

Abstract

This study demonstrates the significant potential of electrodynamic fragmentation (EDF) as a promising method for the recycling of silicon-based photovoltaic (PV) modules. The process achieved effective liberation of valuable components such as glass and silicon, with approximately 70% of the feed material being transferred into the fine fraction. The chemical analyses confirmed a distinct material separation between the coarse and fine fractions, suggesting that EDF can support targeted material recovery. Despite some remaining challenges—such as the partial adherence of silicon and glass to plastic films in the coarse fraction and the handling of process water—the findings confirm the technical feasibility of EDF for PV module processing. A further optimization of pulse parameters and downstream separation steps may enhance the efficiency and purity of the recovered fractions, paving the way for scaling up this technology in future industrial applications.

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