Eigenverlag/Self

Abstract:
To estimate the environmental sustainability of “advanced materials” (AdMs) in innovative solar cell technologies (emerging photovoltaics, EPVs), it is necessary to consider the entire life cycle. Life cycle assessments (LCAs)can identify those materials in a product that contribute the most to environmental damage in relation to the entire product when compared to the other materials used. This offers the opportunity to optimise the product in terms ofsustainability. LCAs of EPVs carried out so far are hardly comparable because of different assumptions and system boundaries; they also have limitations, especially because of missing data. When compared with conventional photovoltaic (PV) technologies, EPVs can generally have a lower demand for energy and a shorter energy payback time because of simpler manufacturing methods and less demand of materials. When compared with solar glass or the (precious) metals or “critical raw materials” used for the electrodes, the AdMs assessed in the LCAs showed minor environmental impacts, primarily because they are used in relatively small quantities. EPVs have not yet reached marketability; consequently, no corresponding recycling technologies have been developed yet. Separatingthe composite materials represents a major challenge in recycling. Ideally, not only environmental compatibility (“prevention through design”, also known as “safety by design”) but also recyclability (“design for recycling”) shouldbe taken into account already at the design stage. Furthermore, consideration should also be given to finding a suitable compromise between highest efficiency, best stability, costeffectiveness, and sustainability (“sustainability by design”)