Work

Potentials of upcycling Photovoltaic panels waste in construction: A comparative review

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: While photovoltaic (PV) panels drive the global shift to renewable energy, their end-of-life (EoL) disposal (forecast to exceed 78 million tonnes by 2050) poses urgent environmental and resource-recovery challenges. Current management practices, dominated by landfill disposal and low-value recycling, not only result in the loss of valuable elements but also risk leaching toxins. This review critically examines the potential uses of PV waste glass (PVWG) and non-pure PV waste glass (NPVWG) in Portland cement (PC) and alkali-activated material (AAM) systems. Through comparative analysis with conventional waste glass (CWG), the review highlights both shared chemical features yet also distinctive traits of PV panel waste, such as ethylene–vinyl acetate (EVA) layers and metallic residues, which may offer functional advantages in construction applications. Key research gaps are identified in durability performance, hazardous-element immobilization, and processing optimization. The findings set out a targeted research and policy agenda to advance PV waste valorization within a circular-economy framework for the construction sector.

Source: Developments in the Built Environment

DOI: 10.1016/j.dibe.2026.100845

Authors: Omar A. Refaat, Hafiz Asad Ali, Yanshuai Wang, Jian-Guo Dai, Yazan Alrefaei

Institutions: Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Shenzhen University, City University of Hong Kong

Language: English

Topic: Recycling and utilization of industrial and municipal waste in materials production

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Affordable and clean energy, Sustainable cities and communities, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,230