Waste heat from thin-film solar modules

What is a thin-film solar cell?

Thin-film solar cells, unlike crystalline silicon cells, use a variety of semiconductor materials deposited in thin layers onto a substrate. Cadmium telluride is the primary material used in CdTe thin-film solar cells , where it acts as the light-absorbing semiconductor.

Are thin-film solar cells toxic?

In thin-film solar cells, incineration is generally less favoured due to the presence of toxic metals, such as cadmium in CdTe cells and selenium in CIGS cells. The high temperatures involved in incineration can lead to the release of toxic fumes and residues, which pose serious environmental and health risks.

Why is thermal recycling important for PV solar cells?

Despite these challenges, thermal recycling remains a valuable tool in the overall recycling strategy for PV solar cells. When combined with mechanical recycling and other techniques, thermal processes can help to maximize the recovery of valuable materials and reduce the environmental impact of PV waste.

What are the environmental challenges in thermal recycling for PV solar cells?

Environmental challenges in thermal recycling techniques for PV solar cells, including harmful emissions, material degradation, and waste management issues. Another challenge is the potential for material degradation during thermal processing.