Exclusive Rights to Microwave Recycling Tech Could Boost Silver Recovery by 95%
Lithium Universe has acquired exclusive global rights to a pioneering microwave-based solar panel recycling technology from Macquarie University, aiming to revolutionize critical metal recovery and sustainability in the solar industry.
- Exclusive global license for Macquarie University’s Microwave Joule Heating Technology
- Technology enables efficient, low-energy delamination of PV solar panels
- Targets higher recovery of valuable metals like silver, silicon, gallium, and indium
- Placement to raise $1.7 million to fund R&D and commercialisation
- Potential to transform solar panel waste management amid growing global PV waste
A New Chapter in Solar Panel Recycling
Lithium Universe Limited (ASX – LU7) has taken a significant strategic step by securing exclusive global rights to a patented photovoltaic (PV) solar panel recycling technology developed by Macquarie University. Known as Microwave Joule Heating Technology (MJHT), this innovation uses targeted microwave energy to selectively heat and soften the adhesive layers in solar panels, enabling efficient delamination and recovery of valuable materials at room temperature.
This acquisition positions Lithium Universe at the forefront of a nascent but rapidly growing solar recycling industry, addressing a looming environmental and resource challenge. With global PV waste projected to reach up to 78 million tonnes by 2050, and current recycling rates languishing at around 15%, the need for more effective and sustainable recycling solutions has never been more urgent.
Why MJHT Matters
Traditional solar panel recycling relies on energy-intensive processes involving high-temperature furnaces and toxic chemicals, which often result in low recovery rates and environmental hazards. MJHT’s microwave approach selectively heats silicon cells within the panel, softening the ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) encapsulant without damaging other materials. This allows for mechanical peeling of panel layers, preserving the integrity of critical metals such as silver, silicon, gallium, and indium.
By avoiding extreme heat and hazardous chemicals, MJHT offers a cleaner, more energy-efficient alternative that could dramatically improve material recovery rates; potentially up to 95-100%; and reduce landfill waste. This breakthrough aligns with global efforts to create circular economies in renewable energy supply chains and mitigate the environmental footprint of solar panel disposal.
Strategic Fit and Market Opportunity
Lithium Universe’s expertise in chemical extraction and refining complements this technology acquisition, enabling the company to explore high-value recovery of critical metals essential for solar and semiconductor industries. The company plans to advance research and development, supported by a $1.7 million capital raise through a two-tranche placement to sophisticated investors.
The market opportunity is substantial. Silver demand, driven by photovoltaics and emerging technologies like AI, is expected to outpace supply, while silicon remains a cornerstone of solar and semiconductor manufacturing. Recovering these materials from end-of-life panels not only secures critical supply chains but also offers economic incentives amid rising raw material costs.
Looking Ahead
Lithium Universe aims to integrate MJHT into existing recycling infrastructure and scale commercial operations by 2032, following planned R&D and pilot testing phases. The company also sees potential applications of the microwave technology in its lithium refinery operations in Québec, signaling a broader strategy to leverage microwave heating innovations across clean energy materials processing.
Executive Chairman Iggy Tan highlighted the strategic importance of this acquisition as a counter-cyclical move, preparing the company for a lithium market rebound while expanding into sustainable recycling technologies. The collaboration with Macquarie University underscores the growing intersection of academic innovation and commercialisation in addressing critical resource challenges.
Bottom Line?
As solar panel waste surges, Lithium Universe’s move could redefine recycling economics and critical metal supply.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly can Lithium Universe scale MJHT from pilot to commercial operations?
- What are the projected recovery yields and cost savings compared to existing recycling methods?
- How will the company navigate regulatory and market acceptance hurdles for this new technology?