Nanoscale Dispersion Separating Fluid for Photovoltaic Module Recycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current recycling methods for photovoltaic modules are energy-intensive, environmentally incompatible, and result in material loss due to chemical dissolution, making them inefficient for recovering valuable materials.
Innovation Solution
A nanoscale dispersion-based separating fluid that reduces interfacial tensions to separate layers without chemical dissolution, allowing for the recovery of valuable materials in solid form through filtration, using a combination of organic solvents, surfactants, and hydrotropes to facilitate the separation of multilayer systems like photovoltaic modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If chemical etching methods using sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide are used to separate multilayer systems, then separation of layers is achieved, but environmental compatibility deteriorates and material loss increases due to chemical dissolution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the separating fluid by using nanoscale dispersions with specific particle size distributions (1-100 nm) and controlled compositions instead of traditional strong acids. This parameter change enables effective layer separation while reducing environmental harm and preventing unwanted chemical dissolution of valuable materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite separating fluids consisting of multiple components including nanoscale particles, surfactants, and solvents working together. This composite approach combines the benefits of different materials to achieve effective separation while maintaining environmental compatibility and preventing material loss.
2Manufacturing precision
If strong acids are used to remove layers from multilayer systems, then layer separation is achieved, but energy consumption increases due to requirements for electrolysis and material recovery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces energy-intensive electrochemical methods (electrolysis) with a chemical-mechanical approach using nanoscale dispersions. The nanoscale particles physically penetrate and wedge between layers, enabling separation through controlled chemical interaction rather than requiring high-energy electrolysis processes.
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional chemical methods are used for separation, then layers can be removed, but material loss occurs due to dissolution in etching solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using nanoscale particles that concentrate their action at specific interfaces between layers. The separating fluid targets only the bonding interfaces with localized chemical interaction, leaving the bulk materials intact and preventing widespread dissolution that occurs with traditional acid methods.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables high recycling rates with minimal material loss and environmental impact by allowing for the targeted removal of bonding agents without dissolving layer materials, improving the recovery of valuable substances and reducing the need for energy-intensive processes.
Implementation Method 1
separation of adhesions and coatings is possible by reducing interfacial tensions between the phases of glued and coated materials and causing separation
Implementation Method 2
The organic component is used for swelling of the plastic when used for separating multilayer systems
Implementation Method 3
The separating fluid is used to remove at least sections of individual or several layers from the multilayer system to produce the desired separation based on capillary forces
Data Source
AI summary
A separating fluid, method and use for separating multilayer systems, especially photovoltaic modules, for the purpose of recycling, which allow the separation of multilayer systems. Especially photovoltaic modules, in comparatively simple manner in terms of the processes used, in as environmentally friendly a manner as possible, at high recycling rates. For this purpose, the separating fluid is a nanoscale dispersion or a precursor thereof.