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Highlights
Lithium Universe (ASX:LU7) obtains worldwide rights to Macquarie University’s Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction technology.
The process enables high-purity silver recovery while preserving silicon wafers for reuse.
Integration with Microwave Joule Heating Technology creates a low-impact circular recycling model for photovoltaic modules.
asx 200 listed Lithium Universe (ASX:LU7) operates in the renewable energy and materials recovery sector, focusing on sustainable solutions for end-of-life solar panels. The company has strengthened its technology portfolio by securing the exclusive rights to an advanced silver recovery process from photovoltaic modules.
Technology acquisition and licensing
Through its subsidiary New Age Minerals Pty Ltd, Lithium Universe has signed a global licensing agreement with Macquarie University for the Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction technology. The patented process employs a controlled electrochemical jet with dilute nitric acid to selectively extract silver from photovoltaic cells without compromising the structural integrity of silicon wafers.
Unlike conventional methods involving abrasive grinding and heavy acid leaching, this process operates at low voltage and minimises contamination risks. The recovered silver achieves a purity level suitable for high-value manufacturing applications, while the intact silicon wafers can be reused in electronics or advanced photovoltaic systems.
Integration with existing recycling technology
The newly licensed process will be integrated with Lithium Universe’s existing Microwave Joule Heating Technology. This technology efficiently separates the layers of photovoltaic modules without damaging glass or silicon, creating a clean base for silver extraction. The combined use of both processes supports a fully closed-loop recycling method that maximises material recovery with minimal environmental footprint.
Environmental and operational advantages
By preserving wafer integrity and enabling silver recovery without high-temperature furnaces, the approach significantly reduces energy usage and hazardous waste production. The process reuses its electrolyte solution in a closed-loop system, further lowering chemical consumption. This aligns with circular economy principles by extending the lifespan of critical materials and reducing the reliance on virgin resource extraction.
Applications and market relevance
Silver is a key element in the electrical pathways of photovoltaic cells. As solar adoption increases across residential, commercial, and utility-scale installations, the demand for silver in photovoltaic manufacturing is expanding. Recovering silver from decommissioned panels offers an additional source for industrial applications without the environmental impact of mining.
The intact silicon wafers recovered through the process can be repurposed for photovoltaic production or upgraded for high-grade industrial and energy storage uses. The scalability of this combined technology positions it as a strong contributor to sustainable materials management in the renewable energy sector.
Future development and milestones
The exclusive global rights agreement outlines stages for research, pilot testing, and commercial deployment. Macquarie University retains research and educational rights while Lithium Universe advances towards operational rollout through its subsidiary. These developments aim to expand capabilities beyond silver recovery, with future plans for reclaiming additional valuable metals from end-of-life photovoltaic modules.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction process?
A low-voltage electrochemical jet method that selectively extracts silver from photovoltaic cells while preserving the underlying silicon wafer. - How does Microwave Joule Heating Technology complement JESE?
It separates photovoltaic panel layers cleanly, preparing wafers for precise silver extraction without damage. - What are the environmental benefits of this combined process?
It reduces energy use, reuses chemicals in a closed-loop system, and minimises hazardous waste generation.
