Laser device for silver nanoparticle recovery of waste photovoltaic module

Description

Laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from discarded solar modules

[0001] The present invention relates to a laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from waste solar modules, and more specifically, to a laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from waste solar modules that enables the extraction of silver as a nanoparticle material among the valuable metals contained in the waste solar modules when the waste solar modules are recycled.

[0002] As carbon neutrality—converging the sum of greenhouse gas emissions and reductions to zero—emerges as a key task for the international community and the proportion of new and renewable energy expands, it is urgent to devise safe disposal and recycling methods for waste resources such as discarded solar panels.

[0003] In particular, as the installed capacity of solar power generation increases, the issue of disposing of waste solar panels is emerging in earnest.

[0004] In Europe, the Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive of 2014 included waste solar panels and imposed obligations on member states for collection, reuse, and recycling.

[0005] In other words, compared to the total amount of waste solar panels generated, it sets a recovery rate target of 85% for large equipment and 75% for small equipment, and stipulates that at least 80% and 55%, respectively, must be reused or recycled.

[0006] Among these, France inserted a provision in its 2014 environmental statute requiring that more than 85% of waste panels be recovered and more than 80% be recycled, just like WEEE.

[0007] France reorganized 'PV Cycle France,' a manufacturers' association responsible for the disposal of waste solar panels prior to the revision of the WEEE directive, into 'Soren' and granted it exclusive rights to manage waste solar panels within France.

[0008] Currently, three solar module recycling facilities are in operation in France, and work is underway to build three more facilities in anticipation of an increase in waste generation.

[0009] Meanwhile, in the United States, each state operates a solar waste management system.

[0010] In other words, California, which has the highest solar power penetration rate in the U.S., introduced the 'California Solar Module Collection and Recycling Act' in 2015 to include solar modules in hazardous waste regulations.

[0011] In addition, Washington State operates a solar module management and recovery program, and most states operate waste solar panel collection centers by region.

[0012] Meanwhile, in the case of Japan, although there is no law stipulating the obligation and method for disposing of discarded solar panels, the Japanese Environment Agency established guidelines for reusing discarded solar panels in 2013.

[0013] The Japanese government established the 'Strategic Roadmap for Collection, Recycling, and Proper Disposal' in 2015 and the 'Guidelines for Recycling Waste Solar Panels' in 2016, proposing disposal methods such as removal, transportation, and recycling.

[0014] In addition, starting in July 2022, Japan’s subsidy system mandated that power plant owners cover the cost of disposing of waste solar panels in advance.

[0015] Meanwhile, since the lifespan of solar panels typically reaches 25 to 30 years, there is still a considerable amount of time left before they are no longer in use, and most of the solar panels that are discarded due to damage or aging are being treated as waste.

[0016] Currently, the recovery of glass, aluminum, copper, silicon, silver, and lead from waste solar panels is not profitable, but experts expect that the situation will change in the future given the rapid pace of solar power adoption.

[0017] In Korea, although various recycling technologies, including registered patent No. 10-2258669, are being developed, the current situation is that recycling offers little practical benefit compared to disposal due to a shortage of specialized processing companies and an underdeveloped market.

[0018] In contrast, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that the value of materials recovered from solar panels will reach $450 million and $15 billion by 2030 and 2050, respectively.

[0019] Therefore, if discarded solar panels, which are expected to increase rapidly and continuously in the future, remain untreated, it will be difficult to recycle idle sites resulting from aging power plants, and there is a possibility of problems arising, such as the influx of hazardous substances like copper and lead into the soil and ocean due to the landfilling of the panels.

[0020] In addition, existing solar panel recycling processes require crushing and high-temperature heat treatment.

[0021] In particular, the leaching and recovery of valuable resources utilizes chemical treatment, and when leaching valuable resources, methods using nitric acid, sulfuric acid, hydrofluoric acid, etc. are mainly applied, so environmental problems such as water pollution are expected to occur during process operation.

[0022] Here, silver extracted using conventional methods can be sold for less than approximately 1,000 won per gram in accordance with current market prices, but when extracted in the form of silver nanoparticles using new technology, although this may vary slightly depending on the particle size, silver with a size of around 100 nm can be expected to generate more than four times the economic effect at around 4,000 won per gram.

[0023] Therefore, in order to recycle waste solar panels, there is an urgent need to develop low-energy, eco-friendly separation and recovery technologies, as well as technologies capable of producing high-quality recovered resources.

[0024] The present invention was developed to improve upon the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from waste solar modules, which enables the extraction of silver as a nanoparticle material among the valuable metals contained in the waste solar modules when recycling the waste solar modules.

[0025] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from a waste solar module, characterized by comprising: a support member including an installation member equipped with an installation block; a pulse laser having a light-emitting member installed on one side of the upper surface of the installation block to irradiate a laser beam in one direction; a path management member including a plurality of lenses installed on one side of the upper surface of the installation block to ensure that the laser beam reaches a target point accurately with minimal optical distortion and energy loss from the light-emitting member; and a precipitation liquid container disposed on one side of the upper surface of the installation block and having a space for accommodating a photoreduction target precipitation liquid obtained by heat treatment and dismantling from a waste solar module and leaching with acid and alkali.

[0026] Herein, the support member further includes a table having an upper surface on which the installation block is installed, and the table is characterized by being installed so as to be movable and fixed with respect to the installation target surface.

[0027] At this time, the pulse laser is characterized as being a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser.

[0028] In addition, the apparatus is characterized by further including a first beam diffuser electrically connected to the pulse laser to diffuse and disperse the laser beam generated from the light-emitting unit to a certain degree to control the intensity of the laser beam and to stably transmit it by the path management unit, and a second beam diffuser electrically connected to the pulse laser to further disperse the beam diffused by the first beam diffuser to expand the irradiation range of the laser beam or to irradiate uniformly over a wider area while lowering the energy density at a specific point.

[0029] And, the path management unit comprises a plurality of lenses, a first lens which is angle-adjustable installed on the installation block and controls the path of the laser beam irradiated from the light-emitting unit to be bent and irradiated at a specific angle; a second lens which is angle-adjustable installed on the installation block and controls the path of the laser beam irradiated through the first lens to be bent and irradiated at a specific angle; and a third lens which is angle-adjustable installed on the installation block and controls the path of the laser beam irradiated through the second lens to be bent and irradiated at a specific angle and directed toward the light-receiving unit.

[0030] In addition, the path management unit further comprises a first lens frame having an inner surface in contact with the edge of the first lens and disposed on the upper side of the installation block, a second lens frame having an inner surface in contact with the edge of the second lens and disposed on the upper side of the installation block, and a third lens frame having an inner surface in contact with the edge of the third lens and disposed on the upper side of the installation block.

[0031] In addition, the path management unit further comprises a first lens support rod extending from the outer surface of the first lens frame toward the upper surface of the installation block, a first lens installation piece extending along the outer circumference of the lower end of the first lens support rod, a second lens support rod extending from the outer surface of the second lens frame toward the upper surface of the installation block, a second lens installation piece extending along the outer circumference of the lower end of the second lens support rod, a third lens support rod extending from the outer surface of the third lens frame toward the upper surface of the installation block, and a third lens installation piece extending along the outer circumference of the lower end of the third lens support rod.

[0032] In addition, the path management unit further includes a first angle adjustment actuator that is detachably coupled to a specific location among the installation holes formed in a plurality of rows and columns on the upper surface of the installation block to support the first lens installation piece, a second angle adjustment actuator that is detachably coupled to a specific location among the installation holes to support the second lens installation piece, and a third angle adjustment actuator that is detachably coupled to a specific location among the installation holes to support the third lens installation piece, wherein the first angle adjustment actuator, the second angle adjustment actuator, and the third angle adjustment actuator are each or simultaneously operated.

[0033] In addition, the apparatus further comprises a precipitation liquid inlet port provided on one side of the precipitation liquid container and communicating with the interior of the precipitation liquid container, a precipitation liquid outlet port provided on one side of the precipitation liquid container and positioned at a lower position from the inlet port and communicating with the interior of the precipitation liquid container, a precipitation liquid supply tank positioned on the lower side of the installation block and connected to the precipitation liquid inlet port, and a precipitation liquid return tank positioned on the lower side of the installation block and connected to the precipitation liquid outlet port, wherein the photoreduction target precipitation liquid circulates from the precipitation liquid supply tank through the photoreduction reaction in the precipitation liquid container and through the precipitation liquid return tank, thereby allowing the precipitation and accumulation of silver nanoparticles from the photoreduction target precipitation liquid to proceed.

[0034] In addition, it is characterized by further including a main controller provided on one side of the installation block to control the operation of the pulse laser, the path management unit, and the sedimentation liquid container, and to monitor them in real time.

[0035] According to the present invention with the above-described configuration, the following effects can be achieved.

[0036] First of all, the present invention has the advantage of being able to reduce and recover high-purity silver nanoparticles from a leachate containing valuable materials separated from waste solar modules.

[0037] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to recover valuable metals such as silver in the form of high-purity particles by a photoreduction method in which a pulsed laser is irradiated onto a precipitate from which valuable materials have been leached.

[0038] In particular, the present invention has the advantage of being able to recover a large amount of silver nanoparticles, which are valuable metals, by providing electrons to the precipitating solution and activation energy according to the wavelength of the laser beam, taking into account the absorption range of valuable ions through acid leaching.

[0039] Above all, compared to the existing process that required a very cumbersome and numerous steps to recover silver from waste solar modules—such as heat treatment and dismantling, acid leaching, dissolution extraction, obtaining silver chloride by silver chloride precipitation, alkali leaching, reduction, casting, electrolytic precipitation, washing, and purification—the present invention has the advantage of being able to secure the innovation of a valuable metal recovery process by eliminating the steps of dissolution extraction, silver chloride precipitation, alkali leaching, reduction, casting, and electrolytic precipitation.

[0040] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of ensuring ease of operation of the entire device when a system in which the precipitation liquid is automatically circulated is applied.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a conceptual perspective view illustrating the overall structure of a laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from a waste solar module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 2 is a conceptual perspective view illustrating the overall structure of a laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from a waste solar module according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from a different point than FIG. 1.

[0043] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings.

[0044] However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but will be implemented in various different forms.

[0045] The embodiments described in this specification are provided to ensure that the disclosure of the invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention.

[0046] And the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0047] Accordingly, in some embodiments, well-known components, well-known operations, and well-known techniques are not specifically described to avoid the invention being interpreted ambiguously.

[0048] Additionally, throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components, and the terms used (mentioned) in this specification are for describing embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0049] In this specification, the singular form includes the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text, and components and operations referred to as 'comprising (or comprising)' do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components and operations.

[0050] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this specification (including technical and scientific terms) may be used in a meaning that is commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs.

[0051] Also, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries are not interpreted ideally or excessively unless otherwise defined.

[0052] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0053] First, FIG. 1 is a perspective conceptual diagram illustrating the overall structure of a laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from a waste solar module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] In addition, FIG. 2 is a conceptual perspective diagram showing the overall structure of a laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from a waste solar module according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from a different point than FIG. 1.

[0055] The present invention may apply an embodiment of a structure in which a pulse laser (200), a path management unit, and a sedimentation liquid container (300) are installed in a support member (100) that includes an installation unit (140) equipped with an installation block (141) as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0056] Here, the pulse laser (200) is provided with a emitting part (210) installed on one side of the upper surface of the installation block (141) to irradiate a laser beam (201) in one direction.

[0057] At this time, the path management unit may include a plurality of lenses (241, 242, 243) installed on one side of the upper surface of the installation block (141) to ensure that the laser beam (201) reaches the target point accurately with minimal optical distortion and energy loss from the emitting unit (210).

[0058] Additionally, the precipitation liquid container (300) is positioned on one side of the upper surface of the installation block (141) and is equipped with a light receiving part (310) into which a laser beam (201) is injected from the light emitting part (210) through the path management part, and has a space for receiving the photoreduction target precipitation liquid obtained by heat treatment and dismantling from a solar waste module (not shown below) and leaching with acid and alkali.

[0059] The present invention is applicable to the above-described embodiments, and it goes without saying that it is also applicable to various embodiments as follows.

[0060] First, the support member (100) may further include a table (110) having an upper surface on which an installation block (141) is installed, and the table (110) may be installed so as to be movable and fixed with respect to the installation target surface (700).

[0061] Here, the table (110) may include an upper frame (111) that supports the installation block (141) and a support leg (112) that extends along the edge of the upper frame (111) toward the installation target surface (700).

[0062] At this time, the support member (100) may further include a lower panel (120) that interconnects the lower sides of each of the plurality of support legs (112) and has an upper surface parallel to the lower surface of the installation block (141).

[0063] Additionally, the support member (100) may further include a wheel assembly (130) comprising a movable wheel (131) provided at the lower end of each of the plurality of support legs (112) and capable of rolling contact on the installation target surface (700), and a wheel support bracket (132) formed at the lower end of each of the plurality of support legs (112) to rotatably support the movable wheel (131).

[0064] In addition, the wheel assembly (130) may further be provided with a brake device that is rotatably coupled to a wheel support bracket (132), although not specifically illustrated, to selectively allow or stop rolling contact of the moving wheel (131).

[0065] Meanwhile, the pulse laser (200) may adopt a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser.

[0066] Here, the Nd:YAG laser is classified as a solid-state laser because the laser medium is a solid, namely Nd:YAG.

[0067] In this case, the Nd:YAG laser is a pulsed laser because its output is primarily emitted in a pulsed form; since it is highly efficient and capable of producing powerful output sufficient to cut or weld thick steel plates, it can be utilized in various fields as a solid-state laser, such as industrial lasers, performances like laser shows, laser therapy, and laser weapons.

[0068] Meanwhile, the laser device according to the present invention may further include first and second beam diffusers (231, 232).

[0069] The first beam diffuser (231) is electrically connected to the pulse laser (200) to diffuse and disperse the laser beam (201) generated from the light-emitting unit (210) to a certain degree, thereby controlling the intensity of the laser beam (201) and ensuring stable transmission by the path management unit.

[0070] The second beam diffuser (232) is electrically connected to the pulse laser (200) to further disperse the beam diffused from the first beam diffuser (231), thereby expanding the irradiation range of the laser beam (201) or lowering the energy density at a specific point, so that it is irradiated uniformly over a wider area.

[0071] Here, a first ground (211) is provided on one side of the pulse laser (200), and a first fixed cable (2111) electrically connected to the pulse laser (200) from the first ground (211) may be further provided.

[0072] At this time, a first coupling (2112) is provided at the end of the first fixed cable (2111), and a second ground (212) provided separately from the first ground (211) may be further provided on one side of the pulse laser (200).

[0073] Additionally, a second fixed cable (2121) electrically connected to the pulse laser (200) from the second ground (212) is further provided, and a second coupling (2122) may be further provided at the end of the second fixed cable (2121).

[0074] And, a first extension cable (223) extends from one side of the first beam diffuser (231), and a third coupling (221) is provided at the end of the first extension cable (223) so as to be detachably coupled with the first coupling (2112).

[0075] And, a second extension cable (224) extends from one side of the second beam diffuser (232), and a fourth coupling (222) is provided at the end of the second extension cable (224) so ​​as to be detachably coupled with the second coupling (2122).

[0076] Additionally, a first display window (233) is provided on one side of the first beam diffuser (231), a second display window (234) is provided on one side of the second beam diffuser (232), and a plurality of control dials (235) may be further provided on one side of the second beam diffuser (232).

[0077] Here, the first beam diffuser (231) is provided to diffuse the laser beam (201) irradiated from the pulse laser (200) at a specific angle so that it can reach the target area, that is, the inside of the precipitation liquid container (300) through the light receiving part (310) uniformly.

[0078] A second beam diffuser (232) may be provided to adjust the path of the laser beam (201) coming from the first beam diffuser (231) or to diffuse it in a different form.

[0079] That is, the first beam diffuser (231) and the second beam diffuser (232) are arranged separately because adjusting the initial directionality of the laser beam (201) and performing precise manipulation through secondary diffusion or focusing each require different mechanical processing steps.

[0080] Here, it can be seen that the second beam diffuser (232) has a larger volume and size compared to the first beam diffuser (231). This is because heavy materials such as transformers and current transformers are built inside the second beam diffuser (232), and additional devices may be built in to perform more complex functions than the first beam diffuser (231) in order to spread the laser beam (201) more widely or to control it more finely.

[0081] At this time, the second beam diffuser (232) can have a relatively larger volume and size compared to the first beam diffuser (231) because it can control the intensity and dispersion angle of the laser beam (201) through an additional thermal management system or electrical components.

[0082] The aforementioned additional device may include the following.

[0083] As described above, the second beam spreader (232) may have a transformer and a current transformer built in to regulate the power generated from the pulse laser (200) and stabilize the required voltage or current.

[0084] The transformer and current transformer can stably supply power to the laser device according to the present invention and can contribute to maintaining a constant intensity of the laser beam (201).

[0085] And, the aforementioned additional device can be an optical filter.

[0086] An optical filter allows only light of a specific wavelength to pass through and blocks light of an unnecessary wavelength, thereby improving the wavelength selectivity of the laser beam (201).

[0087] If an optical filter is built into the second beam diffuser (232), it can contribute to inducing a more precise photoreduction reaction.

[0088] In addition, the aforementioned additional device can be a cooling system.

[0089] Since the laser device according to the present invention generates a large amount of heat, additional devices such as a cooling fan, a water cooling device, or a heat sink may be built in.

[0090] This cooling system can contribute to increasing the overall stability and durability of the device.

[0091] In particular, since the second beam diffuser (232) has a larger volume and size compared to the first beam diffuser (231), the aforementioned cooling system is built-in, allowing the temperature of the laser beam (201) to be maintained stably during long-term use and ensuring the accuracy of the photoreduction reaction.

[0092] The first display window (233) serves to monitor the status of the first beam diffuser (231) and the degree of diffusion of the laser beam (201).

[0093] Since the first beam diffuser (231) is a first-stage device that controls and diffuses the intensity of the laser beam (201) immediately after the laser beam (201) is irradiated from the emitting part (210), the state of the laser beam (201) can be checked in real time through the first display window (233).

[0094] That is, the diffusion state and intensity of the laser beam (201) can be displayed through the first display window (233), and by monitoring whether the first beam diffuser (231) is operating correctly, immediate response is possible in the event of an abnormality.

[0095] And, through the first display window (233), it can be checked whether the intensity of the laser beam (201) has been adjusted to the value set by the user.

[0096] Information may also be provided through the first display window (233) so that, if necessary, the setting value can be manually adjusted or the laser device according to the present invention can automatically take appropriate measures.

[0097] The second display window (234) provides information about the process of additional diffusion of the laser beam (201) in the second beam diffuser (232).

[0098] The second beam diffuser (232) is used as a second diffusion stage of the laser beam (201) when finer adjustment is required, so the status of the laser beam (201) adjusted in the second beam diffuser (232) can be checked in real time through the second display window (234).

[0099] That is, through the second display window (234), it can be checked whether the additional diffusion degree of the laser beam (201) has been adjusted to a value set by the user.

[0100] A plurality of adjustment dials (235) may be provided to manually adjust the degree of diffusion, intensity, angle, etc. of the laser beam (201) in the second beam spreader (232).

[0101] Meanwhile, the path management unit may include first, second, and third lenses (241, 242, 243) that constitute a plurality of lenses.

[0102] The first lens (241) is installed on the installation block (141) in an angle-adjustable manner and controls the path of the laser beam (201) irradiated from the light-emitting unit (210) so that it is bent and irradiated at a specific angle.

[0103] The second lens (242) is installed on the installation block (141) in an angle-adjustable manner and controls the path of the laser beam (201) irradiated through the first lens (241) so that it is bent and irradiated at a specific angle.

[0104] The third lens (243) is installed on the installation block (141) in an angle-adjustable manner, and the laser beam (201) irradiated through the second lens (242) is bent at a specific angle and directed toward the receiving part (310) to adjust its path.

[0105] Additionally, the path management unit may further include a first lens frame (251) having an inner surface that contacts the edge of the first lens (241) and positioned on the upper side of the installation block (141).

[0106] Additionally, the path management unit may further include a second lens frame (252) having an inner surface that contacts the edge of the second lens (242) and positioned on the upper side of the installation block (141).

[0107] Additionally, the path management unit may further include a third lens frame (253) having an inner surface that contacts the edge of the third lens (243) and positioned on the upper side of the installation block (141).

[0108] Additionally, the path management section may further include a first lens support rod (261) extending from the outer surface of the first lens frame (251) toward the upper surface of the installation block (141), and a first lens installation piece (271) extending along the outer surface of the lower end of the first lens support rod (261).

[0109] Additionally, the path management section may further include a second lens support rod (262) extending from the outer surface of the second lens frame (252) toward the upper surface of the installation block (141), and a second lens installation piece (272) extending along the outer surface of the lower end of the second lens support rod (262).

[0110] Additionally, the path management section may further include a third lens support rod (263) extending from the outer surface of the third lens frame (253) toward the upper surface of the installation block (141), and a third lens installation piece (273) extending along the outer surface of the lower end of the third lens support rod (263).

[0111] Additionally, the path management unit may further include a first angle adjustment actuator (not shown below) that is detachably coupled to a specific location among the installation holes (142) formed in a plurality of rows and columns on the upper surface of the installation block (141) to support the first lens installation piece (271).

[0112] Additionally, the path management unit may further include a second angle adjustment actuator (not shown below) that is detachably coupled to a specific location among the installation holes (142) to support the second lens installation piece (272).

[0113] In addition, the path management unit may further include a third angle adjustment actuator (hereinafter not shown) that is detachably coupled to a specific location among the installation holes (142) and supports the third lens installation piece (273).

[0114] At this time, the first angle adjustment actuator, the second angle adjustment actuator, and the third angle adjustment actuator may be operated individually or simultaneously.

[0115] That is, the laser beam (201) is irradiated from the emitting part (210), passes sequentially through the first lens (241), the second lens (242), and the third lens (243), and reaches the receiving part (310).

[0116] Each lens (241, 242, 243) performs the role of preventing excessive diffusion of the laser beam (201) while converging or focusing the laser beam (201) at a specific distance to guide it to reach the receiving part (310) precisely and uniformly.

[0117] That is, each lens (241, 242, 243) is provided to precisely control the path and focus of the laser beam (201).

[0118] And, each lens (241, 242, 243) is provided to minimize optical distortion so that the direction, focus, and final path of the laser beam (201) can be finely adjusted to reach an accurate irradiation point, i.e., a light receiving unit (310).

[0119] In addition, in applications such as high-precision silver nanoparticle extraction, the pulsed laser (200) requires high energy and precision.

[0120] Accordingly, each lens (241, 242, 243) enables the laser beam (201) to pass through various wavelengths while reducing energy loss and accurately reaching the receiving unit (310).

[0121] In other words, each lens (241, 242, 243) is not merely a transmission lens for the laser beam (201), but plays an essential role in adjusting and focusing the path of the laser beam (201) and can be designed to maximize the overall performance and efficiency of the laser device according to the present invention.

[0122] The aforementioned first angle adjustment actuator, second angle adjustment actuator, and third angle adjustment actuator may adopt piezoelectric inertia actuators to enable not only displacement due to reciprocating in the XYZ axis direction, but also rotational movement with the XYZ axes as rotation axes.

[0123] In the photoreduction method for extracting silver nanoparticles using a laser beam (201), the laser irradiation method and the laser irradiation angle are also very important.

[0124] Here, the photoreduction phenomenon is a phenomenon in which a high-density laser wavelength is irradiated onto the leaching solution to cause a photoreduction reaction, and if the irradiation angle of the laser beam (201) is distorted, it can have a direct effect on the photoreduction rate.

[0125] At this time, the laser device according to the present invention may generate minute vibrations when driven, and since this is a factor that can affect the irradiation angle, the table (110) provided to prevent this can be called a vibration damping table.

[0126] However, when the laser device according to the present invention is used for a long time, a slight deviation in the irradiation angle may occur even on the table (110), more specifically on the installation block (141), so there is a possibility of deviation from the targeted irradiation area.

[0127] Therefore, when designing the laser device according to the present invention, by applying a piezoelectric inertial actuator capable of moving each lens (241, 242, 243) by a fine angle, it is necessary to develop a high-precision control device that can automatically adjust to the initial set value (irradiation targeting area) when the laser device according to the present invention is operated in the future based on the initial set value.

[0128] The position setting value of the laser beam (201) is set by obtaining position information of the laser beam (201) through a photodiode sensor (not shown below), setting an initial reference value, monitoring the photosensor value, and then enabling optimal position control by feeding back the fine movement of the laser beam (201) to the aforementioned piezoelectric inertial actuator.

[0129] Accordingly, high-precision angle and position adjustment of each lens (241, 242, 243) can be achieved using piezoelectric inertial actuators, namely the first, second, and third angle adjustment actuators.

[0130] Meanwhile, on one side of the sedimentation liquid container (300), a sedimentation liquid inlet port (301) is provided and communicates with the interior of the sedimentation liquid container (300), and on another side of the sedimentation liquid container (300), a sedimentation liquid outlet port (302) is provided and positioned at a lower position than the inlet port and communicates with the interior of the sedimentation liquid container (300).

[0131] Additionally, a sedimentation liquid supply tank (400) is positioned on the lower side of the installation block (141) and connected to a sedimentation liquid inlet port (301), and a sedimentation liquid return tank (500) is positioned on the lower side of the installation block (141) and connected to a sedimentation liquid outlet port (302).

[0132] Accordingly, the photoreduction target precipitate can be circulated from the precipitate supply tank (400) through the precipitate container (300) via the photoreduction reaction and through the precipitate return tank (500), thereby allowing the precipitation and accumulation of silver nanoparticles from the photoreduction target precipitate to proceed.

[0133] That is, the sedimentation liquid supply tank (400) and the sedimentation liquid return tank (500) are placed on the lower panel (120) of the aforementioned support member (100), thereby enabling stable installation.

[0134] In order to form a circulation path for the sedimentation liquid container (300), the sedimentation liquid supply tank (400), and the sedimentation liquid return tank (500), an inlet pipe section (320) may be further provided, comprising a first inlet pipe (321) connected to the sedimentation liquid inlet port (301) and a first inlet coupling (323) provided at the end of the first inlet pipe (321).

[0135] In addition, to form the aforementioned circulation path, a discharge pipe section (330) may be further provided, comprising a first discharge pipe (331) connected to a sedimentation liquid outlet port (302) and a first discharge coupling (333) provided at the end of the first discharge pipe (331).

[0136] In addition, to form the aforementioned circulation path, a first tank coupling (341) provided on one side of the sedimentation liquid supply tank (400) and communicating with the interior of the sedimentation liquid supply tank (400), and a second inlet pipe (340) having a tip connected to the first tank coupling (341) may be further provided.

[0137] In addition, to form the aforementioned circulation path, a second inlet coupling (342) may be further provided at the end of the second inlet pipe (340) and detachably coupled with the first inlet coupling (323).

[0138] In addition, to form the aforementioned circulation path, a second tank coupling (352) provided on one side of the sedimentation liquid return tank (500) and communicating with the interior of the sedimentation liquid return tank (500), and a second outlet pipe (350) having a tip connected to the second tank coupling (352) may be further provided.

[0139] In addition, to form the aforementioned circulation path, a second outflow coupling (351) may be further provided at the end of the second outflow pipe (350) and detachably coupled with the first outflow coupling (333).

[0140] That is, as the laser beam (201) passes through each lens (241, 242, 243), it is focused and its path is adjusted, and finally, it is irradiated into the precipitation liquid container (300) through the light receiving unit (310).

[0141] When a laser beam (201) is irradiated onto a precipitate to be reduced by light, the high energy of the laser beam (201) is absorbed by metal ions contained in the precipitate, particularly silver (Ag) ions.

[0142] This promotes a photoreduction reaction, which is the process in which a substance that has absorbed light energy releases or gains electrons to cause an oxidation-reduction reaction.

[0143] Here, a specific wavelength of the laser beam (201) is suitable for reducing silver ions (Ag+) into silver nanoparticles (Ag).

[0144] At this time, when the energy of the laser beam (201) exceeds the reduction potential of the silver ions, the silver ions acquire electrons and are converted into metallic silver (Ag).

[0145] In other words, photoreduced silver ions are reduced to metallic silver and converted into nanoparticles.

[0146] In this process, the energy of the laser beam (201) helps the nanoparticles maintain a uniform and fine size.

[0147] That is, the laser beam (201) plays the role of controlling the formation of silver nanoparticles and maintaining their size and distribution at a constant level.

[0148] The size and formation pattern of nanoparticles vary depending on the intensity, irradiation time, and irradiation angle of the laser beam (201).

[0149] Through this, silver nanoparticles of various sizes can be formed, or silver nanoparticles of a desired size can be selectively formed.

[0150] The formed silver nanoparticles gradually aggregate or precipitate within the precipitation solution, and these silver nanoparticles are introduced into the precipitation solution container (300) through the precipitation solution inlet port, and stable formation and accumulation of silver nanoparticles occur for a specific period of time.

[0151] Although not specifically illustrated in the present invention, a circulation system may be additionally provided to allow the sedimentation liquid to continuously circulate through the sedimentation liquid supply tank (400), the sedimentation liquid container (300), and the sedimentation liquid return tank (500).

[0152] These silver nanoparticles accumulate in a precipitation container (300) and can then be recovered by methods such as physical filtering or centrifugation.

[0153] Meanwhile, the laser device according to the present invention may further comprise a plurality of container support pieces (303) formed to protrude from the lower surface of the precipitation liquid container (300) so that the lower surface of the precipitation liquid container (300) is mounted at a certain distance from the upper surface of the installation block (141).

[0154] The reason the sedimentation liquid container (300) is spaced apart by a plurality of container support pieces (303) instead of being installed directly on the installation block (141) is as follows.

[0155] First, multiple container support pieces (303) can be provided for the purpose of heat dissipation and cooling.

[0156] That is, when a laser beam (201) is irradiated into the precipitation liquid container (300), the high-energy laser beam (201) is absorbed by the precipitation liquid and causes a photoreduction reaction. During this process, heat is accumulated inside the container, and the temperature of the precipitation liquid container (300) itself may also rise.

[0157] At this time, by using a container support piece (303) to create a certain gap between the sedimentation liquid container (300) and the installation block (141), heat can be naturally released from the bottom of the sedimentation liquid container (300), thereby preventing overheating and increasing the stability of the system.

[0158] In addition, multiple container support pieces (303) may be provided for the purpose of dampening vibration and shock.

[0159] That is, when a laser beam (201) is irradiated onto a sedimentation liquid container (300), fine vibrations may occur in the sedimentation liquid container (300) due to the high-energy laser beam (201).

[0160] This is because if the sedimentation liquid container (300) is in direct contact with the installation block (141), vibrations may be transmitted to other parts through the installation block (141) or cause shock to the system.

[0161] In other words, the spaced arrangement through multiple container support pieces (303) acts as a buffer to prevent such vibrations from being directly transmitted through the installation block (141), thereby contributing to the stability and lifespan of the system.

[0162] In addition, multiple container support pieces (303) may be provided for the purpose of increasing convenience of maintenance and ensuring accessibility.

[0163] That is, the precipitation liquid container (300) is an important component for recovering silver nanoparticles, and it is necessary to periodically replace or inspect the precipitation liquid inside the container.

[0164] In other words, by being spaced apart by a certain distance by the container support piece (303), it becomes easy to access the leachate circulation path or the installation block (141) at the bottom of the sedimentation liquid container (300).

[0165] This can help simplify maintenance work and make it easier for workers to access and efficiently inspect the components inside and around the sedimentation container (300).

[0166] In addition, multiple container support pieces (303) may be provided to enhance safety.

[0167] That is, the precipitation liquid container (300) can be protected from direct impact or external heat or chemical fluctuations through the container support piece (303) (303).

[0168] In other words, by maintaining a certain distance between the multiple container support pieces (303) and the installation block (141), physical damage or thermal damage caused by external factors is not directly affected by the container.

[0169] Meanwhile, the laser device according to the present invention may further include a main controller (600) provided on one side of the installation block (141) to control the operation of the pulse laser (200), the path management unit, and the sedimentation liquid container (300) and to monitor them in real time.

[0170] Here, a display panel (610) is provided on the front face of the main controller (600) to visually output the operation control and monitoring status of the pulse laser (200), the path management unit, and the sedimentation liquid container (300).

[0171] At this time, a plurality of operation buttons (620) are provided on the front of the main controller (600) to directly control the operation of the pulse laser (200), the path management unit, and the sedimentation liquid container (300).

[0172] A main controller (600) may be provided to play an important role in maintaining the necessary conditions so that the laser device according to the present invention can recover silver nanoparticles to the maximum extent.

[0173] Various operations such as the following can be performed through multiple operation buttons (620).

[0174] First, the wavelength of the pulse laser (200) can be adjusted through multiple control buttons (620).

[0175] That is, by providing a function to manually set the wavelength of the pulse laser (200), the recovery performance of silver nanoparticles according to various wavelengths can be optimized.

[0176] For example, by selecting a specific wavelength, the wavelength optimized for silver nanoparticle formation can be finely tuned.

[0177] And, the pulse duration of the pulse laser (200) can be adjusted through multiple operation buttons (620).

[0178] That is, by adjusting the pulse duration of the laser beam (201), the irradiation time of the laser beam (201) can be finely adjusted.

[0179] This allows the output of the laser beam (201) to be adjusted to match the response time by freely setting it between 5ns and 100ns.

[0180] And, the output intensity of the laser beam (201) can be adjusted through multiple control buttons (620).

[0181] That is, the formation rate of silver nanoparticles can be controlled by increasing or decreasing the energy intensity of the laser beam (201) as the output intensity of the laser beam (201) is adjusted.

[0182] And, the operation of the cooling system can be controlled through multiple control buttons (620).

[0183] That is, by operating the cooling system, heat generated during the operation of the pulse laser (200) can be effectively controlled, and in particular, overheating caused by the laser beam (201) can be prevented.

[0184] And, the circulation system can be controlled through multiple control buttons (620).

[0185] That is, the flow rate of the precipitate can be adjusted to suit the reaction conditions by controlling the liquid circulation speed within the precipitate container (300).

[0186] In addition, automatic and manual modes can be switched through multiple operation buttons (620).

[0187] That is, the laser device according to the present invention can be switched between automatic mode and manual mode.

[0188] In automatic mode, the laser device according to the present invention operates automatically according to the set parameters, and in manual mode, the user can directly adjust each parameter to operate it.

[0189] As described above, it can be seen that the basic technical concept of the present invention is to provide a laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from waste solar modules, which enables the extraction of silver as a nanoparticle material among the valuable metals contained in the waste solar modules when recycling the waste solar modules.

[0190] And, it goes without saying that many other variations and applications are also possible for those skilled in the art within the scope of the basic technical concept of the present invention.

Claims

1. In Claim 1, The above support member is, It further includes a table having an upper surface on which the above-mentioned installation block is installed, A laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from waste solar modules, characterized in that the above table is installed so as to be movable and fixed with respect to the installation surface.

2. In Claim 1, The above support member is, It further includes a table having an upper surface on which the above-mentioned installation block is installed, A laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from waste solar modules, characterized in that the above table is installed so as to be movable and fixed with respect to the installation surface.

3. In Claim 1, A laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from waste solar modules, characterized in that the pulsed laser is a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser.

4. In Claim 1, A first beam diffuser electrically connected to the pulse laser to diffuse and disperse the laser beam generated from the light-emitting unit to a certain degree to control the intensity of the laser beam and to stably transmit it by the path management unit, and A laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from waste solar modules, characterized by further including a second beam diffuser electrically connected to the pulse laser to further disperse the beam diffused from the first beam diffuser, thereby expanding the irradiation range of the laser beam or lowering the energy density at a specific point while irradiating uniformly over a wider area.

5. In Claim 1, The above-mentioned path management unit is, A first lens comprising a plurality of lenses, which is angle-adjustably installed on the installation block and controls the path of the laser beam emitted from the light-emitting unit to be bent and emitted at a specific angle, and A second lens configured to form the plurality of lenses above, which is angle-adjustably installed on the installation block and controls the path of the laser beam irradiated through the first lens to be bent and irradiated at a specific angle, and A laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from a waste solar module, characterized by comprising the plurality of lenses above, and further including a third lens that is angle-adjustably installed on the installation block and adjusts the path of the laser beam irradiated through the second lens by bending it at a specific angle so as to be directed toward the light receiving unit.

6. In Claim 5, The above-mentioned path management unit is, A first lens frame having an inner surface in contact with the edge of the first lens and positioned on the upper side of the installation block, and A second lens frame having an inner surface in contact with the edge of the second lens and positioned on the upper side of the installation block, and A laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from a waste solar module, characterized by further including a third lens frame having an inner surface that contacts the edge of the third lens and positioned on the upper side of the installation block.

7. In Claim 6, The above-mentioned path management unit is, A first lens support rod extending from the outer surface of the first lens frame toward the upper surface of the installation block, and A first lens mounting piece extending along the outer surface of the lower portion of the first lens support rod, and A second lens support rod extending from the outer surface of the second lens frame toward the upper surface of the installation block, and A second lens mounting piece extending along the outer surface of the lower portion of the second lens support rod, and A third lens support rod extending from the outer surface of the third lens frame toward the upper surface of the installation block, and A laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from a waste solar module, characterized by further including a third lens mounting piece extending along the outer surface of the lower portion of the third lens support rod.

8. In Claim 7, The above-mentioned path management unit is, A first angle adjustment actuator that is detachably coupled to a specific location among the installation holes formed in a plurality of rows and columns on the upper surface of the above-mentioned installation block to support the first lens installation piece, and A second angle adjustment actuator that is detachably coupled to a specific location among the above-mentioned installation holes to support the second lens installation piece, and It further includes a third angle adjustment actuator that is detachably coupled to a specific location among the above-mentioned installation holes to support the third lens installation piece, A laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from a waste solar module, characterized in that the first angle adjustment actuator, the second angle adjustment actuator, and the third angle adjustment actuator are operated individually or simultaneously.

9. In Claim 1, A sedimentation liquid inlet port provided on one side of the sedimentation liquid container and communicating with the interior of the sedimentation liquid container, and A sedimentation liquid outlet port provided on one side of the sedimentation liquid container, positioned at a lower position than the inlet port and communicating with the interior of the sedimentation liquid container, and A sedimentation liquid supply tank positioned on the lower side of the above-mentioned installation block and connected to the above-mentioned sedimentation liquid inlet port, and It further includes a sedimentation liquid return tank positioned on the lower side of the above-mentioned installation block and connected to the above-mentioned sedimentation liquid outlet port, and A laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from a waste solar module, characterized in that the photoreduction target precipitate is circulated from the precipitate supply tank through the precipitate return tank after undergoing a photoreduction reaction in the precipitate container, and the precipitation and accumulation of silver nanoparticles proceed from the photoreduction target precipitate.

10. In Claim 1, A laser device for extracting silver nanoparticles from waste solar modules, characterized by further including a main controller provided on one side of the above-mentioned installation block to control the operation of the pulse laser, the path management unit, and the sedimentation liquid container, and to monitor in real time.

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