Process to recycle end of life CDTE modules and manufacturing scrap
US8821711B2 · kind B2 · utility
1Cited by
6References
20Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 20, 2012 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02W30/82
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method for recycling of thin film Cadmium Telluride photovoltaic modules at the end of their life, and manufacturing scrap, has been developed. This method allows for minimum glass fine generation, requires little or no acid compared to other methods, and generates a pure cadmium and tellurium product at recoveries in excess of about 80 percent. In addition, the process allows for the recovery of a clean soda-lime plate glass product.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.