Framework for determining the end of the live of photovoltaics (PV) panels and understanding of degradation mechanisms in PV panels

Brief description of the context of the research including potential impact This project aims to develop a comprehensive framework for determining the end- of-life (EOL) of photovoltaic (PV) panels and to explore innovative approaches for extending the life cycle of PV panels as well as the physics of degradation mechanisms. As global PV

deployment continues to rise, managing the increasing number of EOL panels becomes critical for both sustainability and the circular economy. Aims and objectives 1. Understanding the degradation mechanism that contributes to the EOL by employing in- situ electron microscopy techniques, where the role of the H2O moisture,

mechanical stress as well as temperature can be modelled and experimentally verified on real and model PV heterostructures. 2. Conducting material characterisation to assess the contamination and purity levels of recycled materials, especially silicon, which constitutes 99% of the composition of EOL PV panels in the UK/Europe. By collaborating with recycling companies such as

PV cycle, Power Roll Limited and Viridian Solar, with the goal of correlating the recycle processes with structure and elemental composition final products ( i.e. Si), in order to improve the recycling methods. 3. Investigating when a PV panel can be considered at its true EOL by comparing the actual output power to its theoretical output power, complemented by advanced

diagnostic techniques such as electroluminescence (EL) and thermal infrared (IR) imaging. The large data sets are already in place and data analysis can start from the very beginning of the project.

The research methodology, including new knowledge or techniques in engineering and physical sciences that will be investigated The material characterisation will include techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) for crystal structure analysis (including grain size and texture), and scanning electron

microscopy (SEM) and TEM for surface morphology, EDX and EELS chemical analysis, and EBSD for crystallographic studies. These techniques will help categorise the purity and contamination levels of silicon post-recycling. Also, advanced mashine learning

methods will be used for data analysis obtained by diagnostic techniques such as electroluminescence (EL) and thermal infrared (IR) imaging. Alignment to EPSRC's strategies and research areas

The project aligns well with EPSRC priority: engineering net zero as well as frontiers in engineering and technology, and broadly it is in the area of energy and decarbonisation. Any companies or collaborators involved Companies involved are PV cycle, PV cycle, Power Roll Limited and Viridian Solar.