Researchers develop batteries from faulty solar panels

In a research project at the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, discarded solar modules have been given new life as powerful batteries. This approach could revolutionize energy storage technology while also reducing the environmental impact of photovoltaic waste.

Researchers at the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology have discovered a way to produce cheap batteries from discarded solar systems. Using a new electrolyte design, they were able to develop cost-effective silicon anodes, the institute reports.

The research project focuses on silicon anodes, which are used to increase the energy density of lithium-ion batteries. These silicon anodes expand during charge and discharge cycles, which can lead to mechanical breakage and affect battery performance.

The team led by Guanglei Cui found an alternative in micro-sized silicon particles (μm-Si) obtained from photovoltaic waste. According to the researchers, these μm-Si anodes show remarkable electrochemical stability in combination with a specially developed ether-based electrolyte.

The anodes will maintain an average coulombic efficiency of 99.94%. Additionally, after 200 cycles, they will still have 83.13 percent of their original capacity.

Comparison of the effect of solid-state electrolyte interphase (SEI) on microscopic silicon anodes during cycling between the conventional electrolyte (a) and the electrolyte developed in the study (b). (Source: Liu Tao, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology)

Solid-state electrolyte interphase chemistry as a “secret ingredient”

The secret to the anodes’ success lies in the unique solid-state electrolyte interphase (SEI) chemistry, which is flexible yet strong and holds the broken silicon molecules together. At the same time, it improves ionic conductivity and reduces side reactions.

“Sustainably obtaining silicon from discarded solar cells mitigates the economic and environmental impacts of PV waste,” said Tiantian Dong, one of the study’s authors. “Converting waste into valuable battery components will significantly reduce the cost of lithium-ion batteries and improve their accessibility.”

Team leader Koi is convinced that this research will lead to the development of next-generation batteries, which could be used to power everything from electric vehicles to grid-based energy storage systems.

Empa is also researching new technologies in the energy sector. Researchers at the Thin Film and Photovoltaics Laboratory are developing a new type of tandem solar cell based on perovskite and aiming for higher efficiency than conventional silicon solar cells. You can read more about it here.