California-based startup PV Circonomy has introduced an innovative recycling and treatment service for end-of-life (EoL) silicon solar panels. Utilizing a proprietary, highly automated technology, the company boasts a remarkable 99.3% recovery rate for materials. This solution not only recovers silicon but also extracts ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and glass for repurposing in various industries.
Founded to address California’s regulations against chemical and thermal treatments, PV Circonomy is one of the few businesses in the state recognized by the Department of Toxic Substance Control for recycling and treating PV modules. The company was established by the creators of Taiwan-based TSGC, a spinoff from the National University of Tainan, aimed at commercializing advanced recycling technologies for EoL silicon solar panels.
The recycling process is anchored by the PV Circulator unit, which has a processing capacity of one 60-cell or 72-cell panel per minute, amounting to an annual throughput of up to 10,000 tons. The equipment operates at a power rating of 60 kW and mechanically removes aluminum frames and junction boxes from the panels. The remaining materials are meticulously milled layer by layer and cooled using airflow to prevent chemical reactions, ensuring the materials remain distinct and their properties intact. This airflow method allows for the efficient separation and collection of backsheets, encapsulants, and cell materials.
Employing artificial intelligence and machine learning, the PV Circulator scans each panel, identifies its make and model, and adjusts its operations without any need for human oversight. Andrew Hung, CEO of PV Circonomy, explained, “All PV Circulators are built on a neural network to share optimized experiences, preventing unnecessary duplication of machine learning processes.”
The company has also developed a glass processing unit that produces recycled material conforming to the ASTM C1866 standard for ground glass pozzolan, suitable for use in concrete. Additionally, an EVA recycling machine utilizes thermosetting polymer de-crosslinking technology to convert EVA into high-quality post-consumer recycled (PCR) polymer, which can be utilized in products such as shoe soles or yoga mats. Hung noted that the uniformity in color and properties of EVA materials used in the PV industry contributes to the superior quality of the recycled polymer.
Looking to the future, PV Circonomy plans to offer a hardware-as-a-service (HaaS) model outside of California, allowing partners and local recyclers to lease the PV Circulator equipment. Designed to fit within a standard U.S. 53-foot trailer container, the equipment can be easily transported, facilitating on-site recycling initiatives and potentially reducing costs associated with transporting EoL panels to distant facilities. The company is actively seeking collaborations with local stakeholders who can utilize the valuable recycled materials in their products.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/california-startup-launches-advanced-solar-panel-recycling-technology-with-99-3-recovery-rate/
