Scientists find solar waste could be Australia’s richest silver source

Researchers at Macquarie University have developed a novel precision extraction technology that recovers silver from discarded solar panels with over 77% efficiency, without damaging the silicon wafers or glass components. This method, called Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction (JESE), uses a fine stream of weak acid to selectively dissolve silver directly from the panel surface, preserving other materials for reuse. The technology complements the team’s patented microwave-powered delamination process, which separates panel components without grinding or high heat, enabling recovery of intact glass sheets and reusable silicon wafers. This innovation is licensed to ASX-listed Lithium Universe, which secured global rights for over A$500,000 for 20 years. The significance of this development lies in the growing volume of solar panel waste in Australia and globally, as many panels installed in the early 2000s reach their end of life. Australia alone may accumulate about one million tonnes of solar panel waste by 2035. Each panel contains approximately 20 grams of silver, a