Leaching via Weak Spots in Photovoltaic Modules

This study identifies unstable and soluble layers in commercial photovoltaic modules during 1.5 year long-term leaching. Our experiments cover from all major technologies containing solar cells crystalline silicon (c-Si), amorphous (a-Si), cadmium telluride (CdTe), copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS). These more than 99.9% of the world market. We cut out module pieces 5 × cm2 size these leached them water-based solutions with pH 4, 7, 11, order to simulate different environmental conditions. Unstable open penetration paths for solutions; finally, leaching results delamination. In CdTe pieces, itself back contact are highly soluble. CIGS or less case c-Si cells’ aluminum is unstable. Module a-Si technology also show a contact. Long-term leads delamination kinds pieces; depends strongly on value solutions. For low pH-values, time dependent well described by an exponential saturation behavior constant. The constant pH, as accelerating conditions such increased temperature and/or agitation. clearly demonstrate that it possible leach all, at least large amount, (toxic) elements modules. It therefore not sufficient carry just over 24 h conclude stability impact