Comparative LCA Analysis of Delamination Methods for Photovoltaic Modules Made of CdTe

A key step in the recycling of photovoltaic modules is the delamination process, which can be carried out by thermal, chemical or mechanical methods. An analysis of the literature reveals a paucity of life-cycle analyses taking into account the different recycling processes for thin-film modules (CdTe), the completion of which is necessary to fully understand the issue. The project included an assessment of the environmental impact of various delamination processes (thermal and chemical methods) of modules made with CdTe thin-film technology. In order to collect the data needed for the LCA analysis, experiments were carried out to determine the energy consumption, emissions and potentially harmful waste generated during the delamination process. The LCA analysis conducted on the collected primary data was compared with the analysis for secondary data based on scientific literature. The data obtained during the project will provide a broader view of the recycling process and enable the identification of environmentally sensitive areas.