Atmospheric pressure microwave plasma can rapidly synthesize freestanding graphene under ambient conditions. Recent research has focused on using non-toxic, sustainable precursors, specifically synthesizing graphene from expired tangerine peel oil, a widely available natural resource. According to the study, the Raman spectrum of the synthesized graphene displayed a distinctive 2D peak at microwave powers between 200 and 1000 W. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed an interstitial spacing of 0.34 nm, consistent with X-ray diffraction values obtained via Bragg’s law. Some variation in lattice spacing was observed due to oxygen functional groups. The synthesized graphene, when applied to a screen-printed electrode, was effectively used to recover silver from spent photovoltaics. The study claims this method enhanced resource efficiency, waste reduction, and versatile electrochemical applications.
Environmentally friendly graphene for photovoltaic device recycling
Synthesized graphene on a screen-printed electrode efficiently recovers silver from spent photovoltaics. (Image Credit: ScienceDirect)
Delft University researchers propose integrating inductors into PV modules to improve shade tolerance using MPPT. (Image Source: ScienceDirect)
Fraunhofer’s MaNiTU project developed perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells with 31.6% efficiency using scalable production methods. (Image Source: Fraunhofer ISE)
Through advanced passivation techniques, JA Solar’s Bycium+ cell has achieved a record-breaking open-circuit voltage of 748.6 mV. (Image Source: JA Solar)
To tackle challenges and advance AI-driven maintenance for a net-zero solar future, as revealed by Fluke’s survey. (Image Credit/Source: PublicDomainPictures/Pixabay)