Lithium Universe (ASX: LU7) has shifted its focus to solar panel recycling, acquiring technology that recovers critical metals from photovoltaic (PV) cells. The company recently secured global rights to a microwave joule heating technology developed by Macquarie University. This technology uses microwaves to selectively heat and delaminate PV cells, potentially leading to higher recoveries of critical minerals.
Lithium Universe hopes this process will combat the growing global problem of solar cell waste. By 2050, it is estimated that up to 78 million tonnes of spent solar modules will end up in landfills. Australia alone is expected to generate 1Mt of solar panel waste, valued at over $1 billion, by 2035. Recycling technologies, like the one Lithium Universe is commercialising, can recover up to 98% of silver and nearly all copper, lead, and other valuable metals from PV cells.
Executive chair Iggy Tan emphasised the potential to unlock a new source of silver, silicon, gallium, and indium. He noted that waste PV cells in landfills contain harmful materials like cadmium and lead, posing risks to ecosystems and human health, while also losing valuable metals. Mr. Tan also mentioned Lithium Universe is in discussions with potential offtake partners and spodumene concentrate producers after a definitive feasibility study confirmed the viability of its planned Bécancour lithium carbonate refinery in Canada.
Lithium Universe is an ASX-listed company focused on developing lithium projects. They are also advancing mineral processing technology and infrastructure for the circular economy.
