Re-Use of c-Si Solar Cells from Failed PV Modules

The recycling or re-use of failed c-Si PV modules could be a significant concern in the near future. The existing approaches for cell recovery can be improved both environmentally and economically friendly. Here we propose a novel double encapsulation module with an optical coupler (DEMOC) module design for convenient c-Si cell recovery. In this paper, the concept of DEMOC is illustrated. We successfully determine the materials and lamination recipes for single-cell re-usable mini-modules. The optical reflection and IV performance of DEMOC are measured and prove to surpass those of an earlier-proposed design without optical coupler. The cell recovery procedure of the DEMOC design is discussed at last.