Utilisation of Solar Panel Wastes in Road Pavements

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the use of solar panel wastes in road pavements

Develop a safe and effective soil stabilisation method using recycled glass and polymers from old solar panels

Study how these recycled materials interact with problem soils

Create a computer model to predict how stabilised soils perform under traffic stress

Identify key environmental issues in current solar panel recycling processes through a life cycle assessment

Team

Dilan Robert

Lead Researcher

Dushan Kumarasinghe Mudiyanselage

PhD

Partners

Progress

SUMMARY

This project, led by RMIT, investigates the use of solar panel wastes in road pavements. The project is focused on turning waste from old solar panels—specifically glass and plastic—into useful materials for making roads stronger and more stable. Researchers have developed a mix design using recycled glass, which has been shown to reduce environmental impacts and help stabilise poor-quality soils.

The researchers have also found that recovered glass can safely trap heavy metals in contaminated soils, offering a greener alternative to traditional cement. Geopolymer products made from PV glass waste are showing strong results in tests for strength, durability, and environmental safety.

Work has been published in peer-reviewed journals and shared at conferences. Detailed studies identified major environmental issues in current recycling methods, especially with recovering plastics like EVA. These findings are helping to improve recycling systems.

Currently, advanced computer modelling is underway to assess how roads built with these recycled materials will hold up over time.

OPPORTUNITIES

Strong potential for real-world use in road construction and contaminated soil treatment, and reducing waste to landfill

Access to research grants supporting renewable energy and recycling innovation

New collaborations between the university, recycling companies, and government bodies

Development of commercial recycling solutions for solar panel waste

Advancements in safer, cleaner technologies for solar panel recycling and reuse