From “environmental burden” to “high-grade silver mine”: A review of EVA delamination and silver recovery from end-of-life crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: End-of-life (EoL) crystalline silicon (c-Si) photovoltaic (PV) modules are a secondary source of silver, but their bonded structure makes silver recovery difficult. Removing the ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) encapsulant exposes the cells and affects their suitability for subsequent treatment. Firstly, this review examines EVA removal and silver recovery methods, comparing their separation mechanisms, operating conditions, effects on cell integrity, and product quality. Secondly, a conceptual route using two deep eutectic solvent (DES) systems, termed dual-DES, is proposed. The route couples delamination in a hydrophobic menthol–decanoic acid ([Men][DecA]) DES with silver leaching and in-situ electrodeposition in a choline chloride (ChCl)–malonic acid–FeCl 3 medium. The solvents are regenerated in separate loops. Thirdly, the route is compared with representative recycling processes in terms of energy and reagent use, equipment needs, and recovered-silver purity. A preliminary economic comparison with pyrolysis–nitric acid recycling examines the effects of solvent loading and losses. The discussion also considers differences in module composition, material transfer between stages, design for recycling, digital management, and the use of recovered materials. The comparison indicates that the benefits of lower-temperature processing depend on solvent consumption and regeneration requirements, as well as silver recovery and product quality.
Language: English
Subfield: Environmental Engineering
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,540
OpenAlex ID: W7223183299