Solar Panel Recycling in Ohio
Solar Panel Recycling in Ohio
Solar panels and their batteries empower various industries all over the United States. Today, solar energy is the best sustainable power source. For example, it supports domestic markets, reduces carbon emissions, and does not need much maintenance.
The solar business is always evolving. Thus, these solar modules are becoming ever more important. Leading to the demand for solar panel recycling in Ohio.
Consistently, silicon solar modules contain glass, plastic, and aluminum. Retrieving these three resources happens often. Furthering the demand of solar panel recycling in Ohio.
Furthermore, the average solar panel can last nearly 30 years. After which, they become less economical.
The Recycling Process
Recycling solar modules involves specialized machinery. Therefore, it must be done properly to be profitable.
The practice of solar panel recycling in Ohio involves:
- Removing the frame
- Separation of the glass along a conveyor belt
- Thermal processing to evaporate the plastic
- Etching silicon wafers
This approach provides some important materials, such as aluminum and glass. Furthermore, this practice recovers 95% of the glass from solar powered items.
Secondly, thermal processing splits up the unneeded plastic from the important products. Lastly, etching the silicon wafer divides any unnecessary materials left behind.
Solar Panel Life Cycle
The solar panel lifespan seems to be growing parallel with the industry. Moreover, solar modules have many measures of usefulness and fruitfulness.
Their lifespan can range from:
- 10 – 12 years: efficiency declines by upwards of 10 percent
- 15 – 20 years: efficiency declines by 20 percent
- 25 – 30 years: efficiency declines significantly
Just like a car, the lifespan of solar panels is dynamic, not static. For example, advanced solar panels can work for nearly 40 years. Yet, as they age, functionality starts to drop, regardless of the solar panel’s capacity.
Recycling Solar Panel Batteries
Not all solar panels need batteries to work. Yet lots of them as a backup measure. Likewise, recycling batteries is important for a greener planet. On the other hand, solar panel batteries pollute the Earth if they are not recycled fittingly. One of the main parts of any battery is lithium. It is a relatively uncommon element that does great harm to the planet.
If solar panel batteries are thrown out irresponsibly, toxic waste will grow in landfills. Which can devastate our environment. Not only that, but also valuable supplies are lost. That alone should stimulate companies’ cooperation in recycling solar panels and the parts that empower them.
Recycle Solar Panels in Ohio
In summary, solar panel recycling proves to be a vital component to sustainability. Using solar panels offers the Earth the renewable energy it needs. Especially considering that solar panels replace the infamous fossil fuels. Knowledgeable companies must find the best center for solar panel recycling in Ohio.
For more information, click here to contact Interco.