Lithium Universe Ltd acquires solar panel recycling technology

Australia-headquartered Lithium Universe Limited has acquired global rights for a solar panel recycling technology. The patented Microwave Joule Heating Technology is developed by Macquarie University.  The technology uses microwave heating to soften encapsulants in PV panels. This enables easy separation of materials like silver, silicon, gallium, and indium. The process avoids high temperatures, toxic chemicals, and mechanical crushing. Global solar panel waste may reach 78 million tonnes by 2050. Only 15% of panels are recycled worldwide. Australia is expected to face 1 million tonnes of solar waste by 2035. The recyclable materials market could grow to $80 billion by 2050. The acquisition is through New Age Minerals Pty Ltd. LU7 has secured $1.7 million in investor commitments to support the project.