Process to recycle end of life CDTE modules and manufacturing scrap

摘要

A method for recycling of thin film Cadmium Telluride photovoltaic modules at the end of their life, and manufacturing scrap, has been developed. This method allows for minimum glass fine generation, requires little or no acid compared to other methods, and generates a pure cadmium and tellurium product at recoveries in excess of about 80 percent. In addition, the process allows for the recovery of a clean soda-lime plate glass product.

主权项

1. A method of recycling coated substrates, comprising:
subjecting a substrate comprising a thin film to an oxidation in an oxygen containing environment to produced an oxidized thin film; subjecting the oxidized thin film to an alkaline leach to produce a solid containing cadmium and a solution containing tellurium; and recovering tellurium from the solution containing tellurium.