Australia's outdated solar panels contain a silver trove surpassing that of the country's largest silver mine.
A groundbreaking technology, known as Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction (JESE), is set to revolutionise the way we handle solar panel waste. Developed by researchers at Macquarie University, this innovative method offers a precise, low-energy, non-destructive, and environmentally friendly solution for recovering silver from decommissioned solar panels.
The JESE technology works by directing a thin, narrow jet of dilute nitric acid onto the silver traces embedded in solar panels. This jet functions as a precision cleaning tool, dissolving the silver within seconds through anodic oxidation. The metal is converted into soluble silver ions in the electrolyte solution without causing damage to other components such as silicon wafers or aluminum parts. The dissolved silver ions are then recovered as high-purity metallic silver via electrochemical deposition.
One of the key advantages of this method is its selective silver extraction. Unlike traditional recycling methods, JESE leaves silicon wafers and glass sheets intact, enabling their reuse or repurposing. This not only reduces e-waste but also preserves panel components for potential reuse in semiconductor manufacturing.
The technology operates at a low voltage (~5V), consuming far less energy than traditional methods, and uses mild chemicals rather than harsh, concentrated acids. This not only makes the process more sustainable but also reduces chemical usage and waste.
Another benefit of the JESE method is its high silver recovery efficiency. Achieving over 77% current efficiency, the process minimises damage to the underlying panel materials while still providing a significant recovery rate.
As solar panel waste is expected to reach 60–78 million tonnes by 2050, according to the Australian Energy Council, the JESE technology could unlock a major secondary silver source worth billions. Each solar panel contains about 20 grams of silver worth roughly A$36 (US$23). With only about 15% of used solar panels in Australia currently being recycled, the potential for this technology is immense.
ASX-listed Lithium Universe has secured global rights to Macquarie's technology for more than A$500,000 (US$320,000) over 20 years. The company plans to complete research and development before rolling out commercial operations by 2032, supporting sustainable circular economies in the photovoltaics and electronics sectors.
Dr Binesh Puthen Veettil and Dr David Payne lead the team and hold a provisional patent for their method. They believe the precision process could later be adapted to extract other valuable metals from solar panels, including gallium, indium, and copper.
The JESE technology is paired with the team's microwave-powered delamination system, which separates glass, silicon, and other parts without grinding or high heat. This combination offers both an environmental and economic boost as solar panel waste is expected to rise sharply.
Professor Sam Muller states that innovation is crucial to Australia's renewable energy push, as the country moves toward its target of 82% renewable energy by 2030. The agreement between Lithium Universe and Macquarie University includes annual licensing fees and a royalty on sales, ensuring that the innovation continues to benefit both parties in the long term.
As Australia may accumulate about one million tonnes of solar panel waste by 2035, the JESE technology offers a promising solution to this growing problem. With its potential to recover valuable metals while minimising waste and energy consumption, the JESE technology is poised to play a significant role in the future of sustainable recycling.
- The JESE technology, a groundbreaking approach in renewable energy sector, is developed by researchers at Macquarie University and set to revolutionize solar panel waste management.
- This innovation, known as Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction (JESE), offers a precise, low-energy, non-destructive, and eco-friendly solution for recovering silver from decommissioned solar panels.
- By recovering silver and minimizing waste, the JESE technology could unlock a major secondary silver source worth billions due to the increasing solar panel waste by 2050.
- The potential for JESE technology, paired with its microwave-powered delamination system, is immense in addressing Australia's growing problem of solar panel waste and its aim for 82% renewable energy by 2030.
