How do solar panels get their raw materials?

Understanding the extraction and mining processes helps reveal how vital raw materials for solar panels reach manufacturers. These processes involve specialized methods to obtain and process minerals like silicon, silver, and copper, which form the backbone of solar technology.

What is the value chain of the silicon photovoltaic industry?

Crystal silicon cells accounted for more than 95% of this capacity [1, 2]. Figure 1 illustrates the value chain of the silicon photovoltaic industry, ranging from industrial silicon through polysilicon, monocrystalline silicon, silicon wafer cutting, solar cell production, and finally photovoltaic (PV) module assembly.

What is photovoltaic secondary silicon containing resource (PV-SSCR)?

In the photovoltaic supply chain, a substantial amount of photovoltaic secondary silicon-containing resource (PV-SSCR), including metallurgical-grade silicon refined slag (MGSRS), silicon fume (SF), silicon cutting waste (SCW) and end-of-life silicon solar cell (ESSC) from discharged modules, can be recycled.

Where do photovoltaic cells come from?

Silicon, the main component in photovoltaic cells, is extracted from quartz or silica sand. Mining operations occur in countries like Brazil and China, where high-purity quartz deposits exist. The silica undergoes crushing and refining to produce metallurgical-grade silicon, then purified further for solar use.

How do I sourcing raw materials for solar panels?

Securing raw materials for solar panels involves careful planning to balance cost, quality, and sustainability. I focus on sourcing strategies that ensure steady supply while minimizing environmental impact. I rely on a mix of local and global sourcing to meet material demands efficiently.

What is the technology for silicon recovery through sintering?

The technology for silicon recovery through sintering encompasses high-temperature smelting , slag refining process , electromagnetic induction refining , and blowing refining . Major methods for physically separating and recovering silicon consist of manual sorting, electric sorting, and flotation .