An overview of the comprehensive utilization of silicon-based solid waste related to PV industry

The rapid development of photovoltaic (PV) industry has led to increasing emissions of silicon-based solid (SIBS) waste. The discharge of these solid wastes is not only detrimental to the recovery of valuable resources, but also poses a certain threat to the environment. Although some decentralized studies had been conducted on these wastes, either metallurgical silicon slag, waste crucibles, silicon cutting wastes, or EOL photovoltaic panels, few studies had systematically analyzed the comprehensive utilization of SIBS waste from the perspective of whole PV industry. This work firstly reviews the comprehensive utilization status of SIBS waste, and then analyzes the silicon metal value chain related to PV industry. Finally, it concludes the development advantages, risks and challenges in PV industry, and puts forward a few suggestions on closed and/or opened loop recycling of SIBS waste in PV industry chain. From the perspective of entire industrial chain, systematically sorting out the comprehensive utilization of SIBS waste will provide a theoretical reference for the green and sustainable development of PV industry.

Automated summary

The rapid development of the PV industry has led to an increase in SIBS waste emissions, posing a threat to the environment. This study reviews the current status of comprehensive utilization of SIBS waste and analyzes the related value chain, providing theoretical reference for the green and sustainable development of the PV industry.