Featured in Upside of China's downturn – 12-2019

Taking the lead

This quarter, pv magazine‘s UP Initiative focuses on lead – a toxic heavy metal that’s present in many PV technologies, and one that’s often mentioned in connection with hazardous substances across the green energy supply chain. We take a closer look at the issue and ask what it would mean for manufacturers to replace lead in their modules with more environmentally friendly materials.

By

Michael Fuhs

09 Dec 2019

Mineral ores, including those containing lead, are mined in Australia. | Image: Denisbin

Lead is toxic, and yet it can be found everywhere. This is due in part to man-made emissions. In the past, the heavy metal was released into the environment through the addition of lead to gasoline. Today, according to the German Environment Agency, a large part of this pollution is also caused by car tires …

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