Laser-Induced Delamination in Aged Silicon Photovoltaic Modules

Efficient recycling of aged crystalline silicon photovoltaic (PV) modules is crucial due to rapidly increasing PV installations and associated waste streams. Current methods-mechanical, thermal, and chemical-often compromise material purity and environmental integrity. This paper introduces a novel approach employing near-infrared (NIR) pulsed laser (1060-1085 nm) to selectively ablate the ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) encapsulant from aged silicon PV modules. Results demonstrate a critical threshold for significant EVA removal at laser powers between 9-12 W, with a saturation effect above ~18 W (~45% mass loss). FTIR and XRD analyses confirm effective EVA removal and preservation of crystalline silicon integrity, respectively. This method establishes a precise, low-impact alternative significantly advancing circular economy strategies in photovoltaics.