Lithium Universe has launched the engineering phase for a modular photovoltaic panel recycling plant that integrates cutting-edge technologies to recover high-purity silver, responding to soaring silver prices and rising demand from electric vehicles.
- Engineering phase started for modular PV silver-extraction demonstration plant
- Integration of Microwave Joule Heating Technology for panel delamination
- Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction to recover over 95% high-purity silver
- Silver prices hit record highs amid structural supply deficits
- Rising silver demand driven by photovoltaics and solid-state battery EVs
Engineering Phase Kicks Off for Innovative PV Recycling Plant
Lithium Universe Limited (ASX, LU7) has announced the commencement of the engineering phase for its modular photovoltaic (PV) panel silver-extraction demonstration plant. The company is engaging with international engineering firms experienced in industrial waste and recycling systems to finalise the design and costings of a plant that promises to revolutionise solar panel recycling.
The proposed plant, designed to process between one and four tonnes per hour, will incorporate Lithium Universe’s proprietary technologies, Microwave Joule Heating Technology (MJHT) for delamination of PV panels and Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction (JESE) for high-purity silver recovery. This modular approach aims to reduce construction timelines, minimise site works, and allow for scalable deployment across multiple jurisdictions.
Breakthrough Technologies Target Sustainable, Efficient Recycling
Traditional PV recycling relies heavily on mechanical shredding and high-temperature processes, which can damage valuable materials and consume significant energy. Lithium Universe’s MJHT uses targeted microwave energy to soften the encapsulant binding solar panel layers, enabling clean separation of glass, silicon, and metals without crushing or toxic chemicals. This preserves the integrity of components while drastically reducing energy use and waste.
Following delamination, the JESE process applies a low-voltage nitric acid micro-jet to extract silver from solar cells with over 95% recovery at approximately 96% purity. The process uses 83% less acid than conventional methods, recycles its electrolyte, and produces zero heavy-metal waste, creating a closed-loop, environmentally friendly system.
Silver’s Rising Strategic Importance Amid Market Deficits
The timing of this project is notable as silver prices have reached all-time highs, driven by a structural deficit between supply and demand. Photovoltaic solar panels remain the largest driver of silver consumption, with additional demand emerging from electrification, grid upgrades, and the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market.
Notably, silver is becoming critical in the development of solid-state batteries, which promise longer life, faster charging, and higher energy density than traditional lithium-ion cells. Industry leaders like Samsung SDI are incorporating silver-carbon composites in battery anodes to improve electrical conductivity and safety. This shift could increase silver usage in EVs from tens of grams to 1-2 kilograms per vehicle, representing a significant demand surge.
Looking Ahead, Engineering Partner Selection and Pilot Plant Development
Lithium Universe plans to select its preferred engineering partner in the coming quarter and advance detailed engineering work. The company’s Executive Chairman, Iggy Tan, emphasised the goal of moving away from destructive shredding towards precise, sustainable metal recovery through modular plant design and proprietary processes.
This project not only addresses the urgent need for efficient PV recycling but also aligns with broader clean-energy and circular economy goals by recovering critical materials like silver, silicon, and aluminium from end-of-life solar panels.
Bottom Line?
As Lithium Universe moves closer to pilot plant construction, its innovative recycling approach could reshape silver supply dynamics amid soaring demand.
Questions in the middle?
- Which engineering firm will Lithium Universe select to lead the plant’s detailed design and construction?
- How quickly can the demonstration plant scale to commercial operations and multiple jurisdictions?
- What impact will rising silver demand from solid-state batteries have on global silver markets?