How Lithium Universe’s New Tech Could Revolutionize Silver Recycling from Solar Panels

A Breakthrough in Solar Panel Recycling

Lithium Universe Limited (ASX, LU7) has taken a significant step forward in photovoltaic (PV) solar panel recycling by securing exclusive global rights to Macquarie University’s patented Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction (JESE) technology. This innovative process uses a low-voltage electrochemical jet to selectively dissolve silver from solar cells, preserving the integrity of the silicon wafers beneath. This contrasts sharply with conventional methods that destroy wafers and generate hazardous waste.

The JESE technology applies a gentle electrical potential to oxidize silver contacts on solar panels, dissolving silver ions into a dilute nitric acid electrolyte. The process is precise, targeting only silver fingers and busbars without leaching other metals or damaging the silicon substrate. The silver ions are then recovered as high-purity metal through electrochemical deposition, closing the recycling loop efficiently.

Synergy with Existing Technologies

This acquisition complements Lithium Universe’s existing Microwave Joule Heating Technology (MJHT), which delaminates solar panels by softening encapsulant layers without mechanical grinding or high heat. MJHT preserves both glass and silicon wafers, creating ideal feedstock for the JESE process. Together, these technologies form a comprehensive, sustainable PV recycling platform that maximizes recovery of critical metals while minimizing environmental impact.

By preserving silicon wafers intact, the combined process enables potential reuse or upgrading of silicon for high-value applications, including semiconductor manufacturing and lithium-ion battery anodes. This approach addresses a major industry challenge, recovering valuable materials from solar panel waste without compromising quality.

Economic and Environmental Implications

Each solar panel contains roughly 20 grams of silver, valued at around A$36 at current prices. With global PV waste projected to reach up to 78 million tonnes by 2050, the recoverable silver alone could represent a market worth over A$150 billion. As silver demand surges, driven by photovoltaics, electronics, and emerging technologies, recycling solutions like JESE are poised to play a critical role in bridging supply gaps.

Moreover, the JESE process uses dilute nitric acid and recirculates electrolytes, significantly reducing chemical hazards and waste compared to traditional methods that rely on concentrated acids and mechanical grinding. Energy consumption is also lower, enhancing the sustainability profile of solar panel recycling.

Licensing Agreement and Commercial Outlook

Lithium Universe’s licensing agreement with Macquarie University grants exclusive worldwide commercialization rights, with milestone payments and royalties structured to align incentives. The company aims to complete research and development by 2027, pilot testing by 2030, and commercial deployment by 2032. This timeline reflects a measured approach to scaling the technology while validating its performance and market fit.

Executive Chairman Iggy Tan highlighted the strong collaboration with Macquarie University, emphasizing the blend of academic innovation and commercial vision. The partnership exemplifies how cutting-edge research can translate into practical, scalable solutions that address both economic and environmental challenges in the clean energy sector.

Positioning for the Circular Economy

As the solar industry grapples with mounting waste and resource scarcity, Lithium Universe’s acquisition positions it at the forefront of circular economy initiatives. By enabling efficient recovery of silver and potentially other critical metals like silicon, gallium, and indium, the company is addressing a vital gap in sustainable resource management. This technology not only promises to unlock significant value from end-of-life solar panels but also supports global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and reliance on virgin materials.