Recycling of photovoltaic panels: industrial solutions at IFAT 2026 | Stokkermill for the processing of end-of-life solar modules
Solar Panel Recycling Plants: An Integrated Mechanical Process
The solutions developed by Stokkermill are based on an integrated mechanical approach, engineered to process real-world modules, including damaged, unsorted panels or units sourced from different application contexts.
One of the key distinguishing features of this process is the elimination of preliminary manual operations, particularly the removal of the aluminium frame. Modules are processed directly, delivering significant advantages in terms of operational efficiency, cost reduction and process stability.
Mechanical Delamination of Photovoltaic Panels
At the core of the process lies mechanical delamination, enabling the effective separation of the different layers that make up a photovoltaic module.
Following this stage, a combination of refining and separation technologies allows the recovery of multiple material fractions:
Aluminium, recovered in a form suitable for downstream industrial processing
Glass, separated into high-purity fractions
Polymer fractions (EVA and backsheet), free from significant contamination
Silicon-rich powder, also containing precious metals, intended for further recovery treatments
The integration of advanced separation systems — including eddy current separators, optical sorters and densimetric tables — further enhances the quality and value of the output materials.
Scalable Plant Design for Photovoltaic Recycling
Scalability is a key factor in the development of these solutions. Recycling plants can be configured according to processing capacity requirements and the desired level of automation, ranging from semi-automated systems to fully automated lines.
This flexible approach allows operators to progressively adapt their investment while aligning production capacity with evolving market demands.
Solar Panel Recycling: A Rapidly Growing Industrial Sector
Photovoltaic module recycling is rapidly evolving into a structured industrial sector, where reliability, operational continuity and the quality of recovered materials are critical success factors.
Participation at IFAT 2026 fits within this framework, with the aim of presenting advanced technical solutions and engaging with industry professionals and partners on real-world applications.
Upcoming Events: SRR Madrid and E-Waste World Conference Frankfurt
In the coming weeks, Stokkermill will also be exhibiting at:
These events offer further opportunities to explore developed technologies and discuss application-driven projects in real operational environments.
How are end-of-life solar panels recycled?
+
Solar panels are recycled through mechanical processes that progressively separate the different materials contained within the module. The main stages include size reduction, delamination, glass separation, aluminium recovery, metal fraction sorting, and treatment of silicon-rich powders.
Is it necessary to remove the aluminium frame before recycling a solar panel?
+
Not necessarily. Stokkermill systems are designed to process complete photovoltaic modules without prior manual removal of the aluminium frame. This simplifies the process, reduces processing time, and improves overall operational efficiency.
What materials are recovered from solar panels?
+
Solar panel recycling typically recovers glass, aluminium, copper, polymer fractions, EVA, backsheet, and silicon-rich powders. The exact composition depends on the type of module being processed and the plant configuration.
What is mechanical delamination in solar panel recycling?
+
Mechanical delamination is the process that separates the internal layers of a photovoltaic module, such as glass, EVA, cells, and backsheet. It is a key stage that enables the industrial recovery of the different material fractions within the panel.
Can glass from solar panels be recovered?
+
Yes, glass is one of the main recoverable fractions from photovoltaic panels. Through separation and refining processes, the glass can be classified into different particle sizes and reused in industrial applications.
What does silicon-rich powder from solar panels contain?
+
The silicon-rich powder obtained from the recycling process may also contain traces of valuable metals such as silver and copper. This fraction is typically sent to specialised facilities for further metallurgical or chemical recovery.
Can solar panel recycling plants be automated?
+
Yes. Plants can be configured as semi-automatic or fully automated systems. Fully automated lines are suitable for continuous high-volume processing, while semi-automatic systems offer a scalable entry-level solution.
What is the difference between a semi-automatic plant and a fully automated solar panel recycling line?
+
A semi-automatic plant requires more operator intervention in certain stages of the process, while a fully automated line integrates advanced handling, separation and control systems. The choice depends on processing capacity, budget, and the desired level of automation.
