Environmental and health aspects of CIS-module production, use and disposal

Copper indium diselenide (CIS) is one of the most promising compounds in thin film technology. Since there is scant information available about environmental and health hazards, a study was initiated to characterize risks associated with the production, use and disposal of thin film photovoltaic modules. Data available from literature and developers of this technology contribute to an assessment of potential risks during production. In laboratory experiments the release of hazardous materials during operation caused by accidents or false handling and after disposal are simulated. In biological experiments the possible impact on living matter is established. These experiments comprise toxicity tests with aquatic organisms and rats representing mammals.