Work

Leaching and sequential electrowinning of Cu and Sn from silicon solar modules

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Metal separation and recovery are a key aspect of silicon solar module recycling. This paper provides a fundamental understanding of the leaching and electrowinning in hydrochloric acid of two critical metals in silicon solar cells: copper and tin. A leaching model for solder-coated copper wires was developed to reveal rate orders with respect to concentrations of leaching agents and stirring. Kinetic parameters for electrowinning of copper and tin were determined through Tafel and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis. Cyclic voltammetry was used to determine redox potentials of copper and tin allowing their electrochemical separation. Finally high recovery rates and high metal purity, both over 99%, were achieved for copper and tin through sequential electrowinning. Hydrochloric acid leaching and sequential electrowinning provide a simple and effective option for the recovery of copper and tin from silicon solar modules.

Source: Electrochemistry Communications

DOI: 10.1016/j.elecom.2025.108088

Authors: R. Adcock, T. Chen, N. Click, M. Tao

Institutions: Arizona State University, University of Alabama in Huntsville

Language: English

Topic: Extraction and Separation Processes

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,630