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Photovoltaic module leach testing: Database development and statistical analysis.

Fang Li¹, Sai Ravi Tatapudi¹, Stephanie L Shaw²

¹Photovoltaic Reliability Laboratory, Arizona State University, Mesa, AZ, USA.

Journal of Environmental Management

|February 27, 2025

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This study analyzed lead leaching in 33 photovoltaic (PV) modules using EPA TCLP tests. Modern PV technologies show a lower probability of hazardous lead leaching compared to traditional ones.

Keywords:

ASTM E3325 Landfill Method 1311 PV TCLP Toxicity

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Area of Science:

Materials Science
Environmental Science
Renewable Energy

Background:

Photovoltaic (PV) module disposal and potential environmental impact are growing concerns.
Understanding heavy metal leaching, particularly lead (Pb), from PV modules is crucial for sustainable end-of-life management.
Standardized testing procedures are needed to assess the environmental risk associated with PV module components.

Purpose of the Study:

To compile and analyze Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) test results for a diverse set of 33 photovoltaic (PV) modules.
To investigate the influence of various module attributes on lead (Pb) leaching characteristics.
To assess the environmental hazard classification of PV modules based on EPA TCLP limits.

Main Methods:

Conducted U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) testing on 97 samples from 33 PV modules.
Extracted module pieces using waterjet cutting according to ASTM E3325-21 standard practice.
Analyzed and categorized TCLP results based on module age, cell technology, interconnects, construction, and material type.

Main Results:

Only 3 out of 33 tested PV modules were classified as hazardous.
Modules with modern technologies (e.g., PERC, IBC cells, wire interconnects, glass/glass) exhibited lower lead (Pb) leaching probabilities.
Material aging was identified as a potential factor in increased Pb leaching in two field-aged modules.

Conclusions:

Modern PV module technologies are associated with a reduced risk of hazardous lead (Pb) leaching.
The probability of traditional PV technologies leaching lead (Pb) above EPA limits is estimated to be less than 8% under the tested conditions.
Further expansion of the PV module database is recommended to enhance the representation of deployed technologies and refine risk assessments.