New green solvent research enables efficient perovskite PV recycling

Researchers from Linköping University, Cornell University, The University of Toledo, and Westlake University have developed an aqueous-based recycling method for perovskite PVs, published in Nature. According to the report, the process uses three low-cost additives—sodium acetate (NaOAc), sodium iodide (NaI), and hypophosphorous acid (H₃PO₂)—to restore perovskite layers and rejuvenate degraded cells. It extends recycling to charge-transport layers, substrates, cover glasses, and metal electrodes, enabling full recovery of key components. As per the report, recycled devices maintain efficiency and stability, achieving an average power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 21.9% ± 1.1% and a maximum efficiency of 23.4%. The process reduces resource depletion by 96.6% and human toxicity (cancer effects) by 68.8% while lowering the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) by 18.8% for utility-scale and 20.9% for residential systems, the report says.