Hydrogen from Old Solar Panels: A Revolutionary Fuel Extraction Technology

A new technology developed at the renowned Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) enables the extraction of hydrogen from ammonia using solar panels. This process produces 100% pure hydrogen without the need for further purification.

Use of Solar Panels

An efficient method utilizes a ball milling process, where finely crushed silicon is activated by mechanical impacts, helping to decompose ammonia and release hydrogen. A byproduct is silicon nitride, which finds application in high-capacity lithium-ion batteries.

Technology Potential

This technology allows for a closed-loop system of utilizing waste from solar panels to produce hydrogen and battery components, which is promising on a large scale. Considering the increase in surplus solar panels by 2050, this invention has enormous potential for the future.

The Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology has developed a new technology for hydrogen extraction from ammonia using solar panels, which could have a significant impact on the future production of hydrogen and batteries, promoting clean and sustainable energy.