Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Usage in Solar Photovoltaics

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are increasingly used in the renewable energy sector, from photovoltaic (PV) modules to batteries. There are increasing concerns from the community about PFAS land contamination after PV solar farm construction, but no comprehensive studies on the subject. In terms of potential PFAS use in solar modules, there are no known benefits for using PFAS in the active layer. However, PFAS could be used in outer layers to increase the power conversion efficiency and module lifetime. This study provides an overview of PFASs usage in solar modules and reviews the literature to understand PFAS type and amount used in solar modules. Within the published literature, the information on PFAS for solar panels is limited and mainly includes PFAS usage as anti-reflective and self-cleaning coatings. While there are limited studies, but it can't be argued PFAS certain usage in soalr modules. Most PFAS identified in solar modules belong to the fluoropolymers category, which is a distinct group of PFAS and is considered a polymer of low concern. Academic research on PFAS quantification methods specific to solid matrices could help end-of-life decisions and identify treatment options.