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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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Suggested Citation:"Chapter 3 - Findings and Applications." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2011. Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/14526.
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35 3.1 High-Level Commentary on a 15-Year Timeline In reviewing research materials for this project, a cross- section of current concerns specific to Hazmat transported within each mode was evident. In terms of shared concerns, cer- tainly characteristics of the three surface modes (highway, rail, and marine) position those modes to have the most technolo- gies in common. Trains and barges are physically constrained in the routes that they can follow compared with trucks, aircraft, and (to an extent) oceangoing vessels. The air mode has more in common with the surface modes than with the fixed infrastructure of the pipeline mode; yet it differs from the surface modes in that quantities of the Hazmat transported by air are much smaller, the characteristics of the Hazmat are less dangerous (from the perspective of a catastrophic incident resulting from the Hazmat), and air transport occurs within a virtual “closed loop” of long-standing safety and security processes. Most emerging technologies discovered in the course of this project are involved with vehicles. Some are intended to serve as preventive or detection technologies for infrastructure used by vehicles such as in bridges, tunnels, or railroad tracks. Understandably, most of the pipeline technologies are involved with infrastructure. The selection of container integrity improvements encompasses all modes and includes concepts not only of strengthened materials but also ways to use the commodity itself to help seal a leak. While the focus is clearly on large tanks such as those on rail tank cars, some of the con- tainer improvements may carry over to strengthening smaller containers such as those used to transport radioactive isotopes. As observed by one of the technology developers, “Electron- ics are providing more capabilities with less power and lower cost. Consumers are demanding that devices last longer with- out being tethered to a charger or a communication cable. Memory devices are going up and the costs are going down. Battery energy densities are up, implying that small form fac- tors can now power the same electronics in a smaller volume.” Another technology developer noted “An overwhelming prob- lem for sensing things at any range is that everything existing uses batteries. That will drive users crazy. Passive technologies do exist, and they are capable of sensing things—but this is a very difficult problem. Power has to be somewhere.” This recognition of the importance of stand-alone devices that can operate from sources of self-generated power was noted early by the research team. Three of the most promising technology selections are associated with non-typical sources of electrical power, which is an enabler that allows other tech- nologies to be used more economically, such as for detection and alerting. These three technologies are wireless power, plastic thin-film organic solar cells with flexible polymer bat- teries, and nanopiezoelectronics. (The first two were winners of the MIT Technology Review’s “10 Emerging Technologies” for 2008 and 2009, respectively). These three alternative power generation technologies are not being developed for the pri- mary purpose of transportation applications. This under- scores the team’s premise in Section 2.2 of this report that the research should include applications of technologies used in (or being developed for) other industries but not currently adapted to transportation. The remaining most promising emerging technology selections have each to some degree been envisioned as having a transportation application. One of the RFID technology systems whose developer, a national labora- tory, was interviewed as part of this project won a 2010 RFID Journal award as one of three finalists in the category of “Most Innovative Use of RFID” for its use of RFID to modernize the management of nuclear materials (41). One interviewee made forward-thinking observations about technology developments, grouped into three time periods with respect to technologies’ anticipated time of commercialization: • The Near Term (Present–5 Years) – “In the near-term, informational technologies will reign. More traditional technologies can be made to work in new ways for remediation, packaging standards, safety, C H A P T E R 3 Findings and Applications

and keeping the most dangerous materials away from population centers while enabling better efficiencies.” • Mid Range (6–9 years) – “In the mid-range, technologies that capture informa- tion will reign. They will more easily compile data and seamlessly collect and integrate information. This infor- mation can include items such as protective equipment and response planning needed.” • Long Range (10–15 years) – “In the longest range, technologies will answer ques- tions not yet asked. Response technologies and infor- mation and communications technologies will move to a predictive nature such as predicting the characteristics of a Hazmat release, what equipment will be needed for response, and where and how it needs to be used. This would include better information on the effects of sub- stances that get missed during a Hazmat release, such as during a train derailment. In the longest range, neural networks will assist with predictive modeling.” Relatively few technologies are specialized for intermodal transfer, but some ongoing initiatives will apply squarely to that. These include the concept of electronic shipping papers to supplement hardcopies being explored in the ongoing HMCRP Project 05 and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s (PHMSA’s) Hazardous Materials— Automated Cargo Communications for Efficient and Safe Shipments (HM-ACCESS) initiative (42). Also included is the concept of the common security credential embodied in the HMCRP Project 08, which was solicited during the period of this project’s research. (NOTE: The common security cre- dential was one of the HM Project 04’s Preliminary Most Promising Technology selections, but the team considered its identification as an HMCRP project to preclude the concept from further exploration in Task 6.) It is important whenever possible to consider emerging tech- nologies in parallel fields, and how these might evolve over the time horizon, or their potential impact on issues involv- ing other modes. (NOTE: “parallel” is used here in the sense of how a technology that is primarily intended for a certain application, perhaps for a certain transportation mode, can be useful for other applications and other modes that have some common characteristic. For example, while the pipeline mode is much different from any of the four other modes of transportation, the concept of parallel technologies can still relate to the materials used.) This relationship must be viewed more broadly in regard to materials science and engineering, energy sources and conversion, environmental drivers, minia- turization (e.g., nanotechnology), sensors, monitoring and controls technology, systems simulation technology, and microencapsulation. For example, the cross between nanotechnology and micro- encapsulation could give rise to a leak control scheme that is cheap enough to include with the product (regardless of trans- port mode), does not adversely react in end-use, but activates when a leak exposes it to shear-stress flowing through a crack coupled with a trigger reaction driven by oxygen. While not viable today, with the rate of technology progression, this has potential on a 15-year timeline. (NOTE: the research team had a dialogue with several individuals involved in this type of development, but could not determine any more specific expectation for maturity.) Likewise, “parallel” in this context could be viewed in terms of market drivers and the impact of globalization. Changes in market drivers and globalization are already evident, for example in select market sectors such as the commodities and environmental sectors. Examples here include the scarcity of steel—much less quality steel at reasonable prices, which will no doubt drive the evolution of current materials concepts. Opportunities in this regard will evolve through the use of com- posite systems (not reinforced polymers but rather thinner steel used within a reinforcing scheme). Alternatively, they will evolve through development of new or replacement materials for use in lieu of steel. Several modes of transportation share similar underlying traits. For example, tank cars for trains and similar tanks in trucks and barges involve segments that are more or less cylin- drical shells with end-caps of various forms. Cylinders used to transport gases at a smaller volume-scale likewise share these aspects, as do the end-capped pipeline segments with windows and wings. Indeed, the overarching importance of container integrity to the chemical and transportation industries was underscored by one of our peer reviewers, which led team members to re-think this assessment. There are parallel themes in several categories, including threat prevention, leak detection (and control), anomaly detec- tion, characterization (and assessment), anomaly remediation and repair, alternative fuels, and environmental aspects includ- ing pipelining in challenging areas. Even so, these aspects may reflect existing work supporting regulatory drivers rather than a comprehensive listing of global industry drivers. 3.2 Caveats on the Technology Developer Research Interview Process, Findings, and Analysis Similar to the manner in which the project’s assumptions were delineated in Section 2.2, and to amplify on the Sec- tion 2.8 comments relating to the technology developer inter- view process, the following caveats are offered relating to the technology developer research interview process, findings, and analysis: • Researchers attempted to identify every technology devel- oper of each most promising emerging technology, but they do not represent that all were identified. 36

• Repeated good faith attempts were made to contact every technology developer identified, but attempts did not always result in an interview. • Among the interviews conducted, not all were ultimately considered valid for the project’s objectives. • The sample size is not large. • Among the technology developers whose interviews were considered valid, not all results provided the same level of detail. • Information in interview responses was not independently verified. • Within a technology area with multiple interviews, the level of readiness can and does vary. • Technologies mature at different rates. • There is some overlap between capabilities of certain tech- nology areas (such as photonic sensors and organic thin- film solar cells). • A technology need can sometimes be satisfied in more than one way. • While the project’s research design sought to minimize sub- jective interpretation through the functional requirement/ gap analysis approach, the research team does not represent that the findings, conclusions, and recommendations are totally objective. Indeed, some subjectivity is inevitable in a project of this type. 3.3 Individual Technology Characterization Sections 3.3.1 through 3.3.23 contain narratives for each of the interviewees with respect to their developing technologies. Each narrative includes the following information: • Product description and use (i.e., eventual product) • Technology readiness level • Development path • Challenges to successful implementation • Overall assessment These narratives are meant to provide key points of each technology’s status, from which the results are compiled and summarized in terms of future development expectations. NOTE: for simplification, the team used a modification of the widely used nine-level National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA’s) TRL grading scheme in assessing the level of maturity of the technologies discussed with their developers. The team’s modification, more fully defined in the Appendix F technology developer interview template, recog- nizes the following five technology development levels: • Level 1—basic technology principles have been observed • Level 2—equipment and process concept formulated • Level 3—prototype demonstrated in laboratory environ- ment • Level 4—technology product operational in limited real- world environment • Level 5—technology product fully operational in real-world environment The following subsections consist of a narrative for each of the 23 interviews conducted with technology developers. 3.3.1 Technology Developer Narrative 1—Company Technology Area. Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring Product Description and Use. The technology is two-way wireless monitoring capabilities between battery-operated sen- sors and readers for outdoor applications. It uses active RFID for real-time monitoring of cargo and vehicle and allows two- way command and control and data collection of sensor status and location. Information is transmitted to remote monitor- ing centers. The system provides an immediate alert for any change in cargo status, including movement off-route (using geofencing). In real-time, it helps identify a person in connec- tion with a specific operation in the field, and it sends an alert in the event of tampering. This permits fast response, visibility of operations in the field, and information flow to allow orga- nizational optimization. It claims easy connectivity to public networks and security systems. It is said to be Federal Commu- nications Commission (FCC) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) compliant. Its primary market is carriers working with customs authorities and revenue-collecting government agen- cies as well as commercial fuel distribution companies. Technology Readiness Level: 4–5. Product is fully oper- ational in a real-world environment while spiral development continues. Development Path. Part of the development challenge involved advancing unique sensing capabilities in real-time and in severe outdoor conditions. The product development requires final evaluation with users and setup of final standards and procedures. Challenges to Successful Implementation. No partic- ular impediments to implementation were noted. The cost to acquire and operate the product depends on implementation, and the developer feels the payback time to customers would be approximately 3 to 6 months. Overall Assessment. It appears that this product has entered the marketplace and offers the potential for enhancing 37

Hazmat transportation safety and security. However, insuffi- cient information was provided on user cost and other char- acteristics associated with product implementation to judge market adoptability. 3.3.2 Technology Developer Narrative 2—National Laboratory Technology Area. Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring Product Description and Use. The technology is involved with a wide range of security systems for Hazmat, using loca- tors and tracking devices. The devices are for shipments carry- ing high-security level shipments (i.e., radioactive materials). The technology provides increased security through location detectors at the vehicle or package level. Technology Readiness Level: 3–5. Different products are at various development stages (on average, 2–5 years). Development Path. Those technologies not already in the marketplace will be subjected to demonstrations in a limited real-world environment, followed by making the product fully operational. In general, each product is anticipated to cost the user “a few thousand dollars” to obtain and operate. Challenges to Successful Implementation. These systems are generally not user-friendly. Hence, if something goes wrong or breaks, a special technician is needed. Also, there are con- cerns as to whether the products are sturdy enough to withstand the harsh conditions of daily use. Interactions could be positive or negative on the systems, so the developer is prepared to work with customers to customize their systems to work together. Overall Assessment. Products in this technology area are evolving to the point where they are continuing to add capa- bility while making user benefit/cost more attractive. Improv- ing product durability and maintenance appears to be the next hurdle to overcome. 3.3.3 Technology Developer Narrative 3—Company Technology Area. Networked RFID, ubiquitous sen- sors and cargo monitoring Product Description and Use. The technology involves several systems including (1) RFID units for physical access control and customized RFID (passive, semi-active, and active) enabled sensors for distribution; (2) passive infrared (IR) and microwave intrusion detection systems for home and military security detection; (3) biometrics using advanced fingerprint scanners for vehicle ignition and access control; and (4) wire- less sensor and actuator networks that report location via GPS and sensor data such as temperature, humidity, and radiation detection. Products are compatible with a wireless network protocol. The technology enables both security and remote monitoring of many types of customers. Access control is via both RFID and biometrics. Security is enabled via intrusion detectors, biometrics, and active RFID sensors monitoring a location. Remote monitoring of a distribution network is enabled via field-deployed RFID units with sensor and GPS technology. Detectors report emergencies to a dispatch location. The primary target market is clients that require security and asset management. Technology Readiness Level: 4–5. The developer has an existing product base but is always in the process of bringing new products to Level 5 maturity. Development Path. Continued packaging of capabilities and reduction of costs is key. User costs vary by product, rang- ing from under $100 to thousands of dollars per unit. Challenges to Successful Implementation. There are always technological, manufacturing, and regulatory risks that need to be monitored and addressed in future product development, and the developer tracks those. Overall Assessment. Many of these technology products have been developed initially for other target markets, yet they appear to be readily transferable to meet the needs of the Hazmat transportation industry. 3.3.4 Technology Developer Narrative 4—National Laboratory Technology Area. Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring Product Description and Use. The technology is passive, unpowered sensing and monitoring technology that can take many different forms. These applications could include cargo tampering and leak detection (currently used) and analysis of Hazmat or biochemical threats (potential uses). Passive tags that can detect unauthorized access to cargo can be very useful. The technology uses also include infrastructure monitoring such as pipeline leaks (e.g., an oil drilling company could attach tags to drill pipes). Another form of infrastructure mon- itoring in which there has been interest is bridge monitoring (i.e., embedded strain gauges in bridges and passive chips that could provide information to inspectors who would only need to drive by the area). Current customers include NASA, the aerospace industry, and government agencies including DOE and DOD. A sophisticated device that this organization has developed is a micro-chemical lab that can detect Hazmat or 38

bio-agents, and in principle it could be configured to work with passive, unpowered sensing and reporting technology. For example, such integration could help emergency responders remotely identify leaked Hazmat at the scene of an incident. Technology Readiness Level: 4. The technologies are essentially at the pilot demonstration level. Development Path. This path requires third parties that are interested in using this technology in their product appli- cations and can deliver it to the marketplace at a reasonable cost. This process could take several years before coming to fruition. Whereas probably millions of dollars have been spent on battery-powered tags, much less has been spent for passive tags, and much more would need to be spent to bring them to market. For analog cell networks, probably only a tiny percent of what would be needed for development has been spent to date. Challenges to Successful Implementation. Development costs are substantial, and therefore may require a forcing function (e.g., regulation) to make available the appropriate resources. Use of battery power, rather than wireless, is the cur- rent technology for reading information from 100 meters away. This requires user monitoring and replacement of batteries. Overall Assessment. Eventually both the development funds and technology advancement will provide a solution for using this type of product, operating within a wireless network. It is only a matter of time before this occurs, likely within the next couple of years. 3.3.5 Technology Developer Narrative 5—National Laboratory Technology Area. Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring Product Description and Use. The technology is for mon- itoring and tracking high-value items in transportation and storage using RFID tags equipped with sensors. The trans- porting vehicle is tracked and the state of its cargo’s health is monitored and reported. Package manifest and event history is stored in tag memories and relayed by satellite and secure Internet to a command center. In case of an incident, a GIS- based report is immediately issued to assist with emergency response. The focus to date has been on truck transportation and storage of sensitive nuclear materials for the DOE. The technology has interacted with vehicle tracking technologies and satellite and cellular communication technologies. It has successfully completed initial integration of its RFID technol- ogy and a well-known tracking and communication system. In 2010, this system was selected by industry judges as one of the three finalists of the RFID Journal’s “Most Innovative Use of RFID award.” Technology Readiness Level: 4. The product has been operational in several on-the-road field demonstrations with staged incidents. Development Path. More extensive field trials are under- way. Large-scale industrial production of tags, readers, and other system components are needed for product to become fully operational, in addition to training of personnel and establishment of infrastructure. These developments are expected to occur within the coming year. Anticipated user costs are several thousand dollars for the fixed system, which includes one RFID reader and one communication transpon- der. Each transportation package would be fitted with a tag costing between $100 and $200 each. Challenges to Successful Implementation. Between $500,000 and $1 million is needed to bring the technology into the marketplace. There is continued interaction with industry on development of sensors to expand the RFID functionality. Overall Assessment. This technology product offers an intriguing hybrid solution to the immediate problem associ- ated with making reliable wireless power available in track- ing shipments in transit. The wireless problem is overcome because of the short transmission distance from the package to the reader (located in the truck cab), allowing the sensors to be powered by long-life batteries that can run for several years before needing replacement. 3.3.6 Technology Developer Narrative 6—Company Technology Area. Pressure gauges and chemical detec- tion sensors Product Description and Use. The technology involves the embedding of sensors in products to detect chemical releases. Of the more than 140 products the technology developer has produced, three in particular are applicable to Hazmat transportation: (1) chemical sensors that can detect the presence of chlorine, ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, sulfur compounds, nitrogen, and several other materials; (2) photo ionization detectors useful for identifying hydrocarbons, styrene, gas, or diesel in units of parts per billion; and (3) scin- tillation sensors that can detect gamma or neutron rays. These products are compatible with an open platform that allows integration with third party providers. Technology Readiness Level: 4–5. Some of these prod- ucts are fully operational in a real-world environment, while 39

others are at the stage of being operational in a limited real- world environment. Those products currently at Level 4 are anticipated to be at Level 5 within the coming year. Development Path. Acquisition costs are product- dependent. However, the average payback time to the cus- tomer is estimated to be 3 months. Challenges to Successful Implementation. There were none specified, other than acknowledging that sensors have a finite life and will need to replaced over time. Overall Assessment. This technology developer’s prod- ucts are in the marketplace already, with additional products nearly ready for commercial use. If these products can accu- rately detect chemical releases with very low false alarm rates, it represents a promising Hazmat transportation safety and security enhancement. Given the large number of Hazmat shipments warranting active monitoring, the capability of embedded sensors to detect anomalous conditions at low thresholds and high reliability will benefit shippers, carriers, emergency responders, and government officials. 3.3.7 Technology Developer Narrative 7—Company: Technology No. 1 Technology Area. Pressure gauges and chemical detection sensors Product Description and Use. The technology is nanowire technology used to detect chemical, biological, and radiolog- ical threats while cargo is in transport. The company’s primary target markets are shipping container manufacturers, carriers, and seaports. Technology Readiness Level: 2. The equipment and pro- cess concept has been formulated. Development Path. Proceeding with a prototype demon- strated in a laboratory environment, testing the technology product in a limited real-world environment, and having the product fully operational in a real-world environment is expected to be a 6–9 year development process. It is anticipated that once available, the unit cost to the user will be roughly $300 to obtain the product and $100 to operate it. Challenges to Successful Implementation. Funding in the amount of approximately $10 million will be necessary to bring this product to the marketplace. The technology will also have to be designed to be interactive with communication devices. Overall Assessment. The development and use of nano- wire technology is in its early stages, and therefore more prod- uct development and testing is needed before it can compete in the marketplace. However, this technology offers the poten- tial to achieve improved performance over what is being used in conventional sensors. 3.3.8 Technology Developer Narrative 8—Company: Technology No. 2 Technology Area. Pressure gauges and chemical detec- tion sensors Product Description and Use. The technology is color metric barcodes used to detect homemade explosives and precursors for various forms of explosives. The product is targeted for security use in conflict areas. Technology Readiness Level: 2. The equipment and pro- cess concept has been formulated. Development Path. Proceeding with a prototype demon- strated in a laboratory environment, testing the technology product in a limited real-world environment, and having the product fully operational in a real-world environment is expected to be a 6–9 year development process. It is anticipated that once available, the unit cost to the user will be roughly $100 to obtain the product and less than $100 to operate it. Challenges to Successful Implementation. Funding in the amount of approximately $3 million will be necessary to bring this product to the marketplace. Overall Assessment. Color metric barcoding is in an early development stage, requiring several years of effort before products relying on this technology will become commercially available. When it reaches that point, the benefits derived from product use will be primarily enhanced security from terrorist attacks, although applications to support Hazmat transport safety could possibly evolve. 3.3.9 Technology Developer Narrative 9—Company: Technology No. 3 Technology Area. Pressure gauges and chemical detec- tion sensors Product Description and Use. The technology is gas chro- matography integrated into systems that detect agents, pri- marily chemicals and explosives. The primary target market is buildings with heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Technology Readiness Level: 2. The equipment and pro- cess concept has been formulated. 40

Development Path. Proceeding with a prototype demon- strated in a laboratory environment, testing the technology product in a limited real-world environment, and having the product fully operational in a real-world environment is expected to be a 6–9 year development process. It is antici- pated that once available, the unit cost to the user will be roughly $100 to obtain the product and less than $100 to operate it. Challenges to Successful Implementation. Funding in the amount of approximately $3 million will be necessary to bring this product to the marketplace. Overall Assessment. As the use of gas chromatography for this purpose is just being conceptualized, the emergence of a commercially available product is not likely to occur for many years. Once in the marketplace, the product’s use will be limited to building infrastructure, unless the technology can be integrated with other products to serve transport vehicles and sensitive cargo. 3.3.10 Technology Developer Narrative 10—Company: Technology No. 4 Technology Area. Pressure gauges and chemical detec- tion sensors Product Description and Use. This technology is a 24/7 indoor air monitoring system that is capable of detect- ing aldehydes, oxidizers, acids, and bases. Information can be transmitted via wireless communication. The primary target market is buildings and other facilities that are impor- tant to homeland security. Technology Readiness Level: 4. The technology product is operational in a limited real-world environment. Development Path. It is expected that the technology product will be fully operational and commercially available within the coming year. The anticipated user cost is approx- imately $80,000. Challenges to Successful Implementation. No challenge or impediment was identified. Overall Assessment. At such a high user cost, it would appear that the demand for this product will be limited to large organizations with sizeable fixed infrastructure. Some shippers (chemical manufacturers) may fall into this category. However, unless the technology is customized for smaller, mobile operations, and made available at an affordable cost, its adaptation by the Hazmat transport industry is likely to be extremely limited. 3.3.11 Technology Developer Narrative 11—Company Technology Area. Fiber-optic/photonic sensors and optical scanners Product Description and Use. The technology is fiber- optic sensors as well as optical scanning systems. Fiber-optic sensors can be used for many Hazmat needs; their use depends on the amount of Hazmat and the sensor sensitivity, dynamic range, and resolution. Also, avoiding false signals is one of the critical parameters, whatever the application medium. Fiber- optic sensors and optical scanners can be placed in space or on ground; they can be hand-held, surface-mounted, or embedded into structures. Technology Readiness Level: 1–2. This technology devel- oper studies the problem and designs the proper sensors for appropriate applications. As soon as the proof of concept is completed and a prototype is developed and tested, it is deliv- ered to the customer. Development Path. There will be development of a series of fiber-optic sensors depending on the sensitivity required for each application, and costs are based on sensitivity. The range can vary considerably. Optical scanner costs also vary based on the size and whether they are hand-held or large lab testers. The scanners’ range can also vary considerably for mass produc- tion, and the cost depends on the mass production numbers. Challenges to Successful Implementation. There are no special needs identified in the development. In general, as with any early stage developments, financial support is the critical issue. Overall Assessment. This appears to be a very flexible and versatile technology. Fiber-optics is recognized for the quan- tity and quality of data it is capable of transmitting. It has promise for not only vehicle and cargo monitoring but also infrastructure, such as identifying the type and concentration of toxic gas in a tunnel or the degree of movement of bridge support structures. 3.3.12 Technology Developer Narrative 12—National Laboratory Technology Area. Advanced locks and seals Product Description and Use. The technology is a Secure Sensor Platform (SSP) provides a framework of functionality to support the development of low-power autonomous sensors primarily for nuclear safeguards. This framework provides four primary functional blocks of capabilities required to implement 41

autonomous sensors. These capabilities are security-based communication protocol for radio frequency and hardwire mediums; active, passive, and indicative security features for secure housings; power management for extended battery- powered autonomous operation; and cryptographic pro- cesses providing Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)-based authentication and encryption as well as a public key cryptog- raphy option. Using this framework establishes a common set of functional capabilities for seamless interoperability of any sensor based on the SSP concept. The SSP communication protocol stack can readily support wired or wireless commu- nication by simply replacing the physical layer. The entire protocol stack has been optimized to minimize the energy required for effective communication. Its original basis is as a high-end security and safeguard system providing sensors to remotely monitor nuclear processes and nuclear material storage. Many of the sensors used for that purpose cannot rely on existing infrastructure for power or communications and therefore must be self-contained. The sensor monitoring system configuration consists of a host computer, a translator, many sensor platforms, and data management tools for data collection and verification. The sensors and the translator store and forward all collected data. This capability creates redundant data stores, allowing recov- ery of sensor data to support the requirement for complete data sets. Examples of possible sensors are magnetic, glass break, passive IR, IR break beam, authenticated switch, fiber-optic receiver, fiber-optic loop seal, vibration, and microwave. All of the SSP-based sensors are active devices. They detect and report out-of-normal conditions in near real time. The SSP framework provides three categories of security features. These are active tamper monitoring to protect secret cryptographic keys, intrinsic features for forensic examination, and a passive feature which causes the initiation of an active tamper. Data are encrypted and authenticated at the sensor. Authentication and encryption are based on National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards. Power management uses techniques such as multiplexed sensors, high-energy density battery technologies, and wake-on-radio features. A current example of an SSP sensor application is the RMSA which inherits all of the SSP core capabilities as described. The RMSA uses a low life cycle cost fiber-optic seal sensor. The fiber optic material is inexpensive 1-mm plastic fiber that can be cut in the field in loop lengths up to 50 meters. The fiber loop is actively monitored with light pulses. The seal uses the unlicensed RF bands to periodically communicate its status and immediately communicate alerts. Each seal can store sev- eral years’ worth of transmitted messages. Technology Readiness Level: 4. The SSP framework has been in development for several years with the primary sponsor being the National Nuclear Security Administra- tion (NNSA) Office of Nuclear Verification. The first use of this framework has been the development of the RMSA, which is a monitoring system for a large number of active fiber-optic seals providing worldwide, secure and remote access to the array of seals. Its originating national labora- tory is going through the production process with a commer- cial partner and is on the verge of providing a prototype system to the International Atomic Energy Association (IAEA). Two other sensor developments based on the SSP are the tiny gamma-ray spectrometer and the authenticated switch. Both are autonomous and battery powered. Development Path. SSP future trends include stronger cryptology; greater resistance to tampering; and higher con- fidence of detection while still maintaining low cost for wide deployment, longer autonomous operation, more supported sensor technologies, and more user interfaces to provide choices for monitoring and review platforms. Initially, costs for the RMSA system components are anticipated to be approximately $500 or less in volumes above 500 for the fiber-optic seal, and the translator would cost approximately $6,000 if tamper- indicating and $1,500-$2,000 for a non tamper-indicating commercial version. Challenges to Successful Implementation. The SSP tech- nology is specifically designed to have low life cycle cost, but it is initially a more expensive solution than the commer- cial marketplace can deploy for Hazmat shipments. The SSP has been designed for large, dry, outdoor storage of large num- bers of adjacent spent fuel containers. It provides deterrence by detection. It is currently designed to give alerts to a control center in near real time. Achieving mobility will require some additional R&D (for example, connecting to a GPS/GLS device with terrestrial or satellite communications, possibly with a camera triggered by an authenticated switch). This would not have a big hardware impact but could involve software licenses and royalties. Finally, there may be RF emission restrictions in some nuclear facilities. Overall Assessment. The SSP and its RMSA application have resulted from a lot of thought and research. Security of containers has remained a vexing problem. Many different seals (including tamper-indicating seals) have been defeated by vulnerability assessment researchers, often with surprising speed. Security of some particularly dangerous or high-value Hazmat shipments could be improved by defeating sophisti- cated intrusion attempts and reporting their occurrence. As the cost of this technology comes down, carriers of cargo such as explosives and bulk TIH may find that the SSP’s ability to protect sealed Hazmat cargo with low maintenance, high confidence in collected information, and lower staff-hours for inspection make it affordable. 42

3.3.13 Technology Developer Narrative 13—Company Technology Area. Advanced locks and seals Product Description and Use. The technology is locks and seals that can be remotely monitored for intrusion and system functioning. Technology Readiness Level: 4–5. The technology prod- uct is fully operational in a real-world environment, although user evaluations and development of standards and proce- dures are ongoing. Development Path. Although user cost will depend on the type of system implementation, average customer payback time is estimated to be between 3 and 6 months. Challenges to Successful Implementation. No challenges or impediments were identified. Overall Assessment. In its current form, this product appears to be limited in function to being a device for detect- ing product tampering and providing alerts, while lacking advanced encryption and other features that make seals and locks difficult to defeat. 3.3.14 Technology Developer Narrative 14—Company Technology Area. Intelligent video tracking and sur- veillance Product Description and Use. The technology is secu- rity and safety cameras that capture images, replicate them to a hard drive and compresses them, then give them to the user interface to view online recorded images. Intelligent video analytics provides a length of a queue line by counting people, recording features by frames based on tripwire, detecting cam- era blinding attempts, and conducting image stabilization. This can also be in High Definition 1080p. (NOTE: 1080p is a very high resolution video format and screen specification intended to deliver a smoother image that stays sharper dur- ing motion.) This technology can be used to detect a person presenting an illicit card at a secured door that could either trigger an alarm, or alternatively, let that person have access and trip video cameras to automatically record images of his/her movement. The technology can be used to protect container ports and other sites with imports and exports. Cam- eras can capture tag numbers on trucks and tail numbers on airplanes with a time and date stamp on the image. The tech- nology can conduct entry/exit monitoring of restricted areas and any other areas without restriction, such as for a remote, usually unoccupied pipeline facility. Technology Readiness Level: 4–5. Acquisition and oper- ation cost and ROI are currently difficult to determine because this technology developer works through a dealer and quanti- ties can range from a few hundred to a few thousand. Development Path. Incremental improvements to a proven technology are being made by this company. Every transportation mode can conceivably benefit by advanced video surveillance and monitoring features that are primarily security-related but could also include safety monitoring. Challenges to Successful Implementation. There are no discernable impediments to developmental versions reach- ing the marketplace. Privacy issues could be one potential impediment, but proliferation of video surveillance in mod- ern society has been rapid, particularly after 9/11, and privacy issues have not come into play when this technology is used for security surveillance. When video surveillance is coupled with knowledge of aspects of human behavior, it can be done in a way that focuses on what a person does, not who they are. If typical activity patterns for a given area are known, intelli- gent video analytics can help detect and alert when something breaks the pattern, such as an object left in a field of view. The tracking feature can be employed to virtually follow someone with suspected malicious intent without their realizing they are being followed. Overall Assessment. Intelligent video surveillance has great promise to increase its role as the “eyes and ears” of remote and unmanned site surveillance. It has a decision sup- port role in that it not only sees what is occurring but can help decide whether the occurrence is cause for alarm. It also pro- vides a type of forensics in that it records and time- and date- stamps events. 3.3.15 Technology Developer Narrative 15—Company Technology Area. Intelligent video tracking and sur- veillance Product Description and Use. The technology is video content analysis software that processes and fuses live surveil- lance camera images for automatic recognition of suspicious events or malicious activities at a site based on a multi-layer intelligence. The main specialty of this system is site-wide identity tracking, accomplished by processing and fusing the information from all connected cameras, and tracking people, vehicles, and other objects from camera to camera. Identity tracking in this context means that by receiving infor- mation from a (third party) access control system or other primary source of identities, users can attach names or other information to the tracked people, so the system at the end 43

not only knows that there is somebody there, but also knows who it is. The system can also be used not only to analyze but to predict behaviors. Technology Readiness Level: 3. The development of this technology originally targeted the physical security market, above all the video surveillance/CCTV segment. Besides a num- ber of security-related potential use cases of identity tracking technology, the developer is currently focusing on customer behavior analysis in retail. An example is not only analyzing purchases, but also predicting the behavior of customers in shops, providing invaluable data for optimizing product placement. Development Path. Besides further research and devel- opment, appropriate test sites should be chosen to accomplish piloting. As this is a new technology providing services not previously in the market, its capabilities should be first dis- seminated to raise attention and generate demand. Challenges to Successful Implementation. Privacy issues can apply to any video surveillance system. As the main ben- efit of the system is the increased level of security on a site by mitigating certain risks, it is challenging to estimate payback time because it highly depends on the prevalence and sever- ity of malicious events and the damage they may cause. Overall Assessment. This is a technology that can work in conjunction with access control, can incorporate iden- tity management, and provide decision support. It would be feasible to track a Hazmat vehicle from camera to camera as the vehicle passes along a highway through a HTUA, as well as tracking a person such as an intruder in a seaport or rail switching yard. The software appears to works with current, standard cameras. 3.3.16 Technology Developer Narrative 16—Company Technology Area. Wireless Power Product Description and Use. The technology is wireless power and radio frequency energy harvesting, converting radio waves into direct current (DC) power. This is an enabling tech- nology in that it helps to provide electrical power for sensors and other technologies that would be more expensive due to battery maintenance and replacement costs. The application is for commercial industrial and defense industries. It sup- plies power that various sensing and communicating devices might not otherwise have. It eliminates cords and reduces battery needs. Wireless transmission could be used to power safety warning sensors to detect unsafe or toxic substances, allow GPS/GLS devices attached to a vehicle that may be bat- tery powered to be wirelessly charged, or power sensors for monitoring structural health in all infrastructure. Industries will save money by eliminating frequent battery changes. Technology Readiness Level: 4. In 2007, the developer released the first version of this technology. In 2009, it released a second generation, and now has released volume production and new components of the technology. Development Path. The developer is currently using a dis- tributor to evolve the technology into different applications. It also has training and supportability plans implemented and an active mechanism in place to make product improvements in response to customer suggestions. Challenges to Successful Implementation. The FCC reg- ulates and limits a certain amount of power broadcast, so the technology has to be FCC-compliant. As power levels and dis- tances of transmission increase, FCC regulation could take on more importance. Overall Assessment. Wireless power has the potential to supply electricity to sensors and communications devices from a distance and without the need for power cords. It can be used to recharge batteries, and the number and size of bat- teries needed by a device using wireless power can be reduced. 3.3.17 Technology Developer Narrative 17—Company Technology Area. Wireless Power Product Description and Use. The technology uses advanced material science and proprietary software algo- rithms to identify, profile, and adapt wireless power delivery to various loads in varying configurations. This is an enabling technology in that it helps to provide electrical power for sen- sors and other technologies that would be more expensive due to battery maintenance and replacement costs. Simple examples include wirelessly charging and powering hand-held scanners and other devices and wirelessly charging and power- ing flashlights and other security devices to enable them to be “always ready” portable lighting for emergency responders, police, firefighters, soldiers, and so forth. Another use is in-vehicle charging and power delivery for charging and pow- ering sensors and other devices in adverse climates and condi- tions. There is the potential for specialized software applications to enable devices using intelligent communications. Wireless power technologies can power a room—a “wireless coffee shop” has been demonstrated in which a laptop and cell phone were kept charged through this technology. Technology Readiness Level: 4–5. Several new patents have been granted to the technology developer, who is help- 44

ing to drive development of interoperability standards as a founding member of the Wireless Power Consortium. Development Path. The initial market is low power con- sumer electronics with additional medium and high power applications that benefit industries forthcoming. Application- specific uses may require additional research and development. Challenges to Successful Implementation. Shielding may be required to prevent interference in certain radio bands. Sup- ply chain development may be needed for certain form factors and applications. It remains to be determined how the technol- ogy is impacted by magnetic energy. From a safety and regu- latory standpoint, short distance and even some long distance wireless power meet requirements. IEEE runs the standards program that covers wireless technology. Overall Assessment. This is a promising technology. “Uni- versal power” at its best can eliminate cords and connections and give load power. Applications can range from milliwatts to kilowatts. It is conceptually possible to have a sensor embedded in packaging that remotely relays information that the level of a liquid or solid is getting low, by receiving a signal and then responding. The sensor would be in the packaging itself and could be detected by being in proximity to a device. If a railcar holds materials, the device could power a receiving coil on the railcar, then the railcar could ping materials carried internally. Distance depends on power levels—several railcars back from a device on a locomotive might be attainable, and it is even possible to “daisy-chain” a signal down a line of railcars. 3.3.18 Technology Developer Narrative 18—University Technology Area. Nanopiezoelectronics Product Description and Use. The technology uses devices made of a common, inexpensive, very thin plastic and zinc oxide to produce power for sensors, actuators, and other uses from externally applied strain (force, pressure, or small physical motion). The devices convert motion to elec- tricity, which can be used or stored in a battery or capacitor. This is an enabling technology in that it helps to provide elec- trical power for sensors and other technologies that would otherwise be more expensive due to battery maintenance and replacement costs. Safe (non-toxic), low-cost, biodegradable materials are used. Primary markets include the electronic industry especially emphasizing microelectromechanical/ nanoelectromechanical systems (MEMS/NEMS), multifunc- tional devices, and sensors in mobile electronics that can be powered without batteries. Nanogenerator technology could be used to allow small tracking devices that normally need a power source to send a signal to the user from energy created by the environment. It can also be used to power sensors, locks, and other technologies associated with pipelines using the gas flow (turbulence) to trigger the device to produce electricity. A flag with these materials could produce electricity as it flutters in the wind. Technology Readiness Level: 1–2. The technology has already been used to store a charge in a capacitor and power an LED. The developer believes 2–5 years is a plausible time- frame for product maturity. Development Path. About 2 to 3 years is needed to com- mercialize the technology, and millions of dollars will be needed to reach Level 5. Although not cited as an impediment, it is acknowledged that 2 to 3 million dollars in additional invest- ment is needed in commercialize the technology. Challenges to Successful Implementation. A previous obstacle was that only a low voltage could be produced, but following a technical breakthrough, 3 to 4 volts can now be produced. Another impediment includes making the system more robust and optimizing the design. Overall Assessment: This is an environmentally friendly technology that capitalizes on motion or strain to provide power to certain devices where there otherwise would be none. It can produce power inside a vehicle where solar power is not available. This represents an extremely promising technology development in that it will enable tracking and monitoring of hazardous materials shipments to occur without the cost of battery maintenance and replacement. Moreover, this may create an opportunity to improve the precision of real-time status if GPS/GLS transmissions can be sent with greater fre- quency due to less concern for the amount of battery power being consumed. 3.3.19 Technology Developer Narrative 19—Company Technology Area. Plastic Thin-Film Organic Solar Cells Product Description and Use. The technology is a third generation, thin-film, flexible, organic photovoltaic material that is printable on plastic. This is an enabling technology in that it helps to provide electrical power for sensors and other technologies that would be more expensive due to battery maintenance and replacement costs. It allows the conversion of light (outdoor and indoor) to DC power and is very good at converting low light so collection time is expanded over the entire day. Also, there is a positive thermal coefficient so as the material warms up, it works better. The four primary markets are microelectronics, portable power, remote power and build- ing integrated photovoltaics (i.e., photovoltaic materials that 45

are used to replace conventional building materials in parts of a building). Technology Readiness Level: 4–5. The next generation product is under development, with planned sampling release in late 2010 and production in early 2011. The technology is a component for integration into other technologies, so close collaboration with other technologies is vital for the success of this developing technology. Development Path. The product has had a substantial investment and appears ready for commercialization in tar- geted application areas. Challenges to Successful Implementation. The product must be adhered or laminated to other technologies, so devel- opment efforts are required in most cases to incorporate the product into other technologies. Also, the product must have an electrical connection which may require development efforts depending on the application. Overall Assessment. This represents a very promising technology development that will enable tracking and moni- toring of Hazmat shipments to occur with reduced cost of bat- tery maintenance and replacement. Moreover, this may create an opportunity to improve the precision of real-time status if transmissions can be sent with greater frequency due to less concern for the amount of battery power being consumed. 3.3.20 Technology Developer Narrative 20—Company Technology Area. Plastic Thin-Film Organic Solar Cells Product Description and Use. Organic solar cell tech- nology generates power at a low cost, cheaper than fossil fuels. This is an enabling technology that helps to provide electrical power for sensors and other technologies that otherwise would be more expensive due to battery maintenance and replace- ment costs. It has applications for eliminating battery usage to supplying power to other technologies. It can provide power to remote and wireless sensor networks, and perhaps a device on a chemical tank that requires wireless power. It can help sup- plement power supply if the grid is down. The technology can easily be integrated with other products. Technology Readiness Level: 4. Tens of millions of dol- lars have already been spent in development and tens of mil- lions remain to be invested. The products are developed, then licensed to a company, and the return is usually a small per- centage of the license module. Development Path. The targeted market includes any company with a need to generate power and operate mobile devices. The next stages are capital intensive with demon- strations. Most work is done in a research environment so it takes longer to bring technologies into production. There is a move toward the commercial environment. Challenges to Successful Implementation. There are no known technical impediments outside of the challenges of development. Overall Assessment. This represents an extremely prom- ising technology development in that it will enable tracking and monitoring of Hazmat shipments to occur with reduced cost of battery maintenance and replacement. Moreover, this may create an opportunity to improve the precision of real- time status if transmissions can be sent with greater fre- quency due to less concern for the amount of battery power being consumed. 3.3.21 Technology Developer Narrative 21—Company Technology Area. Plastic Thin-Film Organic Solar Cells Product Description and Use. The technology involves putting semi-conductors (solar cells) on non-traditional sur- faces depending on the substrate, which can be fairly transpar- ent. It is a flexible printed circuit sheet that has a film battery on one side and generates electricity when exposed to light. This is an enabling technology that helps to provide electrical power for sensors and other technologies that otherwise would be more expensive due to battery maintenance and replace- ment costs. The solar cells can go on corners or curved surfaces. Power generated can be stored in a battery or capacitor. Colors of light absorbed and the transparency can be tuned to be nar- row in its detection. “Organic” means that carbon is a major component and most of the chemicals needed are generally standard and non-toxic. Flexible organic solar cells can be very thin, relatively transparent, and thus more aesthetic in their applications than traditional solar cells, which tend to be crystalline and opaque and relatively difficult to put into a product. They could be used on the outside surfaces of a vehi- cle such as the roof, or applied as a film on a window to gen- erate electricity. “Power paint” (i.e., the thin-film, relatively transparent, flexible organic solar cell coating) on outside surfaces, including windows that would otherwise be wasted surface area, could be a significant part of an electric vehicle’s (EV’s) budget, extending the range and reducing battery size and expense. Technology Readiness Level: 3–4. The developer builds proof-of-concept devices and licenses to volume manufac- turers. Development depends on partnerships and capital investment as well as engineering optimization and scaling. 46

Development Path. Economics should be favorable if the technology can reduce the amount of electrical capacity needed by a device or vehicle. In the near term, sensors, devices, and electric vehicles are the target to augment and offset the energy load from the battery. Higher frequency transmission times and data rates can be possible, which can benefit sensors and communications systems. In the longer term, power gener- ation, especially peak power, is a target. Challenges to Successful Implementation. Learning how to make the cells larger and at volume is key. It is currently pos- sible to make them up to 6 in. square. The technology needs to migrate towards larger proof-of-concept devices. Overall Assessment. This represents a very promising technology development that will enable tracking and moni- toring of Hazmat shipments to occur with reduced cost of bat- tery maintenance and replacement. Moreover, this may create an opportunity to improve the precision of real-time status if transmissions can be sent with greater frequency because of less concern for the amount of battery power being consumed. 3.3.22 Technology Developer Narrative 22—Company Technology Area. Container Integrity Product Description and Use. The technology is a self- healing, self-sealing substance that is resistant to bullets. The technology is currently used for fuel transport in the military in the form of a urethane compound sprayed on the outside of a fuel tanker. The compound reacts chemically with fuel to seal off a bullet hole puncture to the metal jacket of a tank, helping prevent what otherwise may result in a conflagration. The concept can be tailored to different chemistries of liquids and natural gas; its feasibility with chlorine and ammonia tech- nologies has reportedly been demonstrated. It provides cor- rosion resistance which can lengthen life expectancy of tanks. It may be possible to embed tracking and monitoring devices into the coating to remotely report damage and help to deter- mine what sort of emergency response is needed. Beyond its current military vehicle application, the technology could be used for infrastructure and by DHS and the trucking, rail, and pipeline industries. It is complementary with blast and fire mitigation technologies. Technology Readiness Level: 3. Full-scale testing with different specialized chemistries is needed, which will be expensive. Development Path. There is a need to find partners and to tie into government regulation guidelines and protocols for testing. There is a possible worldwide military market for the technology. Challenges to Successful Implementation. Loss of a fuel tanker to fire or explosion or the cost to clean up a spill that results in fire are known expenses, but it is more difficult to quantify the money saved from protection. The process does add weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. Overall Assessment. This specialty technology devel- opment evolved based on a need. Once the technology was developed, it solved a problem quickly. The technology could benefit multiple modes, helping to protect not just vehicles but also pipelines from certain kinds of damage. 3.3.23 Technology Developer Narrative 23— U.S. DOT Research Organization Technology Area. Container Integrity Product Description and Use. The technology is a sand- wich structure to protect railroad tank cars against punc- ture from impacting objects in the event of derailment or collision. A sandwich structure acts like a shield to protect the commodity-carrying tank. The structure generally con- sists of two face sheets that are separated by a core. Protection is offered through two mechanisms: load blunting (or load distribution) and energy absorption. Both mechanisms would prevent or mitigate tank car punctures and may raise the stan- dard for impact for tank cars above the current 18 mph. The primary target is tank car manufacturers or anyone who is interested in designing improvements to the crashworthiness of tank cars. Technology Readiness Level: 1. This technology is in the basic research stage. It is too early to determine acquisition and operation cost and potential ROI because the technology is still in testing. Development Path. There are a lot of collaborative efforts within the tank car community, including representation from railroads, manufacturers, and chemical companies that have a vested interest in safe Hazmat transport. Currently for this technology, there is ongoing research to develop sandwich panels to be applied to ships’ hulls, including Office of Naval Research work to protect ships from explosive impacts. This can be modified for tank cars on a more mechanical level, such as wheel and car impacts rather than blasts. Challenges to Successful Implementation. The protective structure needs to be within weight and space requirements. Some trade-offs may be necessary between sufficient protection and the weight and space budgets. The extra protection could significantly raise the cost of a rail tank car, which may hamper voluntary adoption. There was some rule-making activity 2 years ago when the Federal Railroad Administration tried 47

to make more rigorous regulations concerning technologies of this type, but there was industry resistance. The stricter standard may be revisited. Overall Assessment. This technology is a noteworthy approach to strengthening and protecting tanks and ships’ hulls. Because this is a very new technology, industry has only recently become interested in it, and industry buy-in is important. The next steps in the development will be cru- cial to gain acceptance. Funding has been running low, but there may be an infusion in the next few months. Industry may become interested as time goes on and more tests and prototypes are developed. 3.4 Technology Evaluation Results Table 3-1 contains summary evaluation results for all 23 most promising emerging technologies researched, listed in order of the technology developer narratives from Section 3.3. Tables 3-2 through 3-4 contain the outlook for technologies maturing during certain time periods. Table 3-2 is the near- term timeframe (i.e., within the next 2 years), Table 3-3 is the 2–5 year timeframe, and Table 3-3 is the 6–15 year timeframe. These are also listed in order of technology developer narrative number from Section 3.3. Figure 3-1 provides a development roadmap for each of the nine most promising emerging technology areas. The columns to the right of the Technology Area correspond to the five tech- nology development levels defined by the research team and explained at the beginning of this section. The length of the bar portrays the relative maturity of the technology area. This involves some interpolation and averaging because a given technology area is usually represented by more than one tech- nology, and developing products researched may reach the marketplace at different times. Also, as noted in Section 3.2, technologies mature at different rates. The black part of the bar is intended to show researchers’ perceptions of where the majority of development has progressed to date, while the gray part of the bar shows advance entries approaching or entering the marketplace. The two representative examples of Container Integrity technology are on opposite ends of the development path. That interpretive challenge was addressed by recognizing that research programs are in place for developing solutions in this technology area over the next 2–5 years and thus portraying that as the collective timeline. 48

49 Technology Area Narrative No./ Organizational Type Technology Function Tech Dev Level Market Availability User Unit Cost Impediment(s) Comments Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring 1 Company Active RFID monitoring of cargo and fuel during transport using battery operated sensors 4-5 Short-term Variable/notdisclosed None noted Information transmitted to remote monitoring centers Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring 2 – National Laboratory Systems featuring locators, tracking devices and disclosure of information for first responders 3-5 2-5 years Estimated to be a few thousand dollars Requires a special technician to make repairs; systems must withstand harsh conditions associated with trailer use Primary market is shippers requiring high security levels (e.g., radioactive cargo) during truck transport Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring 3 Company Security and remote monitoring systems utilizing RFID, intrusion detection, biometrics, and wireless sensor and actuator networks 4-5 Short-term Products range from under $100 to thousands of dollars None specifically noted Products designed from silicon up to plastics, with industry proven wireless network protocol Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring 4 – National Laboratory Infrastructure monitoring using passive, unpowered sensing technology 4 2-5 years Passive system: $0.05-$0.10 per tag and $2,000 per reader; active system: $50-$100 per tag Finding development funding can be a constraint in customizing technology for new application, especially if no forcing function exists; desirable if power can be available to transmit information up to 100 meters Eventually both the development funds and technology advancement will provide a solution for using this type of product, operating within a wireless network Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring 5 – National Laboratory Monitor and track items in transportation and storage, using satellite and secure Internet to relay information 4 Short-term Several thousand dollars for fixed system of one RFID reader and communication transponder; cost of $100-$200 per package tag $500K to $1M would bring readiness to Level 5; also need large-scale industrial production of tags, readers and other system components, training of personnel, and establishment of infrastructure Primary market is shipments of sensitive nuclear materials Pressure gauges, chemical detection sensors 6 Company Chemical and radiation detection; over 140 products with different attributes 4-5 Short-term Variable acquisition cost; average payback of 3 months Sensors have a finite life Open platform for integration of third party sensors; target markets include industrial safety, civil defense, and petrochemicals Pressure gauges, chemical detection sensors 7 Company Indoor air monitoring 2 6-10 years $80,000acquisition cost The technology will have to be designed to be interactive with communication devices Can communicate via wireless; primary target market is buildings and homeland security Pressure gauges, chemical detection sensors 8 Company Chemical, biological, and radiological threat detection using nanowire technology 2 6-10 years Unit cost of $300 to wire and $100 to operate Need $10M in additional funding Interactive with communication and display devices; primary use is on shipping containers Pressure gauges, chemical detection sensors 9 Company Explosives detection using color metric barcodes 2 6-10 years Unit cost of $300 to obtain and under $100 to operate Need $3M in additional funding Product use will be limited to building infrastructure unless the technology can be integrated with other products in order to serve transport vehicles and sensitive cargo Pressure gauges, chemical detection sensors 10 Company Chemical and explosives detection using gas chromatograph 4 Short-term Unit cost of $300 to obtain and under $100 to operate Need $3M in additional funding Primary target market is buildings with HVAC systems Fiber-optic/photonic sensors & optical scanners 11 Company Sensors using fiber-optics 1-2 6-10 years for optical scanner and in general, 2-5 years for some fiber- optic sensors $25-$400 per sensor; $400-$2M per optical scanner, depending on the production scale Need $900K in sensor development funds; need $4-6M in scanner development funds Has promise for not only vehicle and cargo monitoring but also infrastructure monitoring Table 3-1. Summary evaluation results of all developing technologies. (continued on next page)

50 Technology Area Narrative No./ Organizational Type Technology Function Tech Dev Level Market Availability User Unit Cost Impediment(s) Comments Advanced locks & seals 12 – National Laboratory Secure Sensor Platform (SSP) with applications such as Remotely Monitored Sealing Display (RMSA) 4 2-5 years Seals: $500 in volume > 500 units; translator: $6,000 if tamper- resistant, $1,500- $2,000 if not Initial cost is high; need volumes to bring cost down. RFID may have some interference restrictions in some areas. Encryption makes seals highly resistant to intrusion that escapes detection. SSP design represents middle ground between passive tags and active seals. Advanced locks & seals 13 Company Two-way wireless monitoring and control of battery-operated sensors attached to cargo and assets 4-5 Short-term Cost depends on application; payback expected in 3-6 months No known impediment Includes geofencing and alerts in the event of tampering Intelligent video tracking & surveillance 14 Company Image capture and intelligent video analytics 4-5 Short-term $100-$1,000 No known impediment Integrates with access control; part of Open IP Alliance Intelligent video tracking & surveillance 15 Company Video content analysis software that processes surveillance camera images to support identity tracking 3 2-5 years $800-$1,000 per camera; $10,000 per server Need $800K in additional funding; possible privacy protection issues Interacts with multiple security-related technologies and systems Wireless power 16 Company Wireless power through radio frequency energy harvesting, supporting sensing, and tracking devices 4 Short-term $150- $200 per transmitter; $20 per receiving component Need to be compliant with regulations and standards regarding power levels Distributor used to bring technology into applications; training and supportability plans have been implemented Wireless power 17 Company Uses advanced material science and software algorithms to identify, profile and adapt wireless power delivery to various loads and configurations 4-5 Short-term Small per-unit cost when mass produced Application-specific uses may require addition R&D; shielding may be required to prevent interference in certain radio bands Primary market has been low power consumer electronics Nanopiezoelectronics 18 University Enables tracking and communication devices to be powered without batteries by capturing energy created by the environment 1-2 2-5 years Unit cost should be low, with quick payback time Need $2-3M in additional funding; so far only 3-4 volts can be produced; system design needs to be made more robust A very promising technology development that can produce electrical power from slight motions or vibration Plastic thin-film organic solar cells 19 Company Converts light to DC power 4-5 Short-term Dependent on application Requires integration via adherence or lamination with other technologies; must have electrical connection Basic product is in production Plastic thin-film organic solar cells 20 Company Wireless power from organic solar cells to operate sensors, lights, and cameras 4 2-5 years Not identified Need at least $10M in additional funding Product to be licensed to companies building devices requiring power Plastic thin-film organic solar cells 21 Company Builds proof-of-concept organic solar cell devices and licenses product to volume manufacturers 3-4 2-5 years Not identified Learning curve associated with making cells larger and at volume; additional development capital needed; dependent on business partnerships Materials used are generally standard and non-toxic Container integrity 22 Company Self healing/sealing jacket that is resistant to impact, thereby keeping cargo from releasing from container 3 2-5 years $100K-$500K, depending on the function Need $2.5M–$5M for full- scale testing Can embed tracking and monitoring devices; complementary with blast and fire mitigation technologies Container integrity 23 U.S. DOT Research Organization Sandwich structure— load blunting and energy absorption 1 6-10 years Not identified Need funding; must meet weight and space requirements Primarily intended for protecting railroad tank cars Table 3-1. (Continued).

51 Technology Area Narrative No./ Organizational Type Technology Function Tech Dev Level MarketAvailability User Unit Cost Impediment(s) Comments Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring 1 Company Active RFID monitoring of cargo and fuel during transport using battery operated sensors 4-5 Short-term Variable/notdisclosed None noted Information transmitted to remote monitoring centers Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring 3 – Company Security and remote monitoring systems utilizing RFID, intrusion detection, biometrics, and wireless sensor and actuator networks 4-5 Short-term Products range from under $100 to thousands of dollars None specifically noted Products designed from silicon up to plastics, with industry proven wireless network protocol Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring 5 – National Laboratory Monitor and track items in transportation and storage, using satellite and secure Internet to relay information 4 Short-term Several thousand dollars for fixed system of one RFID reader and communication transponder; cost of $100-$200 per package tag $500K to $1M would bring readiness to Level 5; also need large-scale industrial production of tags, readers, and other system components; training of personnel; and establishment of infrastructure Primary market is shipments of sensitive nuclear materials Pressure gauges & chemical detection sensors 6 – Company Chemical and radiation detection; over 140 products with different attributes 4-5 Short-term Variable acquisition cost; average payback of 3 months Sensors have a finite life Open platform for integration of third party sensors; target markets include industrial safety, civil defense, and petrochemicals Pressure gauges & chemical detection sensors 10 Company Chemical and explosives detection using gas chromatograph 4 Short-term Unit cost of $300 to obtain and under $100 to operate Need $3M in additional funding Primary target market is buildings with HVAC systems Advanced locks & seals 13 – Company Two-way wireless monitoring and control of battery operated sensors attached to cargo and assets 4-5 Short-term Cost depends on application; payback expected in 3-6 months No known impediment Includes geofencing and alerts in the event of tampering Intelligent video tracking & surveillance 14 Company Image capture and intelligent video analytics 4-5 Short-term $100-$1,000 No known impediment Integrates with access control; part of Open IP Alliance Wireless power 16 – Company Wireless power through radio frequency energy harvesting, supporting sensing, and tracking devices 4 Short-term $150- $200 per transmitter; $20 per receiving component Need to be compliant with regulations and standards regarding power levels Distributor used to bring technology into applications; training and supportability plans have been implemented Wireless power 17 – Company Uses advanced material science and software algorithms to identify, profile, and adapt wireless power delivery to various loads and configurations 4-5 Short-term Small per unit cost when mass produced Application-specific uses may require addition R&D; shielding may be required to prevent interference in certain radio bands Primary market has been low power consumer electronics Plastic thin-film organic solar cells 19 Company Converts light to DC power 4-5 Short-term Dependent on application Requires integration via adherence/lamination with other technologies; must have electrical connection Basic product is in production Table 3-2. Evaluation results of technologies available in the short term.

52 Technology Area Narrative No./ Organizational Type Technology Function Tech Dev Level Market Availability User Unit Cost Impediment(s) Comments Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring 2 – National Laboratory Systems featuring locators, tracking devices, and disclosure of information for first responders 3-5 2-5 years Estimated to be a few thousand dollars Requires a special technician to make repairs; systems must withstand harsh conditions associated with trailer use Primary market is shippers requiring high security levels (e.g., radioactive cargo) during truck transport Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring 4 – National Laboratory Infrastructure monitoring using passive, unpowered sensing technology 4 2-5 years Passive system: $0.05-$0.10 per tag and $2K per reader; active system: $50- $100 per tag Finding development funding can be a constraint in customizing technology for new application, especially if no forcing function exists; desirable if power can be available to transmit information up to 100 meters Eventually both development funds and technology advancement will provide a solution for using this type of product, operating within a wireless network Advanced locks & seals 12 – National Laboratory Secure Sensor Platform (SSP) with applications such as RMSA 4 2-5 years Seals: $500 in volume > 500 units; translator: $6,000 if tamper-resistant, $1,500-$2,000 if not Initial cost is high; need volumes to bring cost down. RFID may have some interference restrictions in some areas Encryption makes seals highly resistant to intrusion that escapes detection. SSP design represents middle ground between passive tags and active seals Intelligent video tracking & surveillance 15 – Company Video content analysis software that processes surveillance camera images to support identity tracking 3 2-5 years $800-$1,000 per camera; $10,000 per server need $800K in additional funding; possible privacy protection issues interacts with multiple security-related technologies and systems Nanopiezoelectronics 18 – University Enables tracking and communication devices to be powered without batteries by capturing energy created by the environment 1-2 2-5 years Unit cost should be low, with quick payback time Need $2-3M in additional funding; so far only 3-4 volts can be produced; system design needs to be made more robust A very promising technology development that can produce electrical power from slight motions or even vibration Plastic thin-film organic solar cells 20 – Company Wireless power from organic solar cells to operate sensors, lights, and cameras 4 2-5 years Not identified Need at least $10M in additional funding Product to be licensed to companies building devices requiring power Plastic thin-film organic solar cells 21 – Company Builds proof-of-concept organic solar cell devices and licenses product to volume manufacturers 3-4 2-5 years Not identified Learning curve associated with making cells larger and at volume; additional development capital needed; dependent on business partnerships Materials used are generally standard and non-toxic Container integrity 22 Company Self healing/sealing jacket that is resistant to impact, thereby keeping cargo from releasing from container 3 2-5 years $100K-$500K, depending on the function Need $2.5M - $5M for full- scale testing Can embed tracking and monitoring devices; complementary with blast and fire mitigation technologies Table 3-3. Evaluation results of technologies available in 2–5 years.

53 Technology Area Narrative No./ Organizational Type Technology Function Tech Dev Level Market Availability User Unit Cost Impediment(s) Comments Pressure gauges & chemical detection sensors 7 – Company Indoor air monitoring 2 6-10 years $80,000 acquisition cost The technology will have to be designed to be interactive with communication devices Can communicate via wireless; primary target market is buildings and homeland security Pressure gauges & chemical detection sensors 8 – Company Chemical, biological, and radiological threat detection using nanowire technology 2 6-10 years Unit cost of $300 to wire and $100 to operate Need $10M in additional funding Interactive with communication and display devices; primary use is on shipping containers Pressure gauges & chemical detection sensors 9 – Company Explosives detection using color metric barcodes 2 6-10 years Unit cost of $300 to obtain and under $100 to operate Need $3M in additional funding Product use will be limited to building infrastructure unless the technology can be integrated with other products in order to serve transport vehicles and sensitive cargo Fiber- optic/photonic sensors & optical scanners 11 – Company Sensors using fiber-optics 1-2 6-10 years for optical scanner and 2-5 years for some fiber- optic sensors $25-$400 per sensor; $400-$2M per optical scanner, depending on the production scale Need $900K in sensor development funds; need $4-6M in scanner development funds Has promise for not only vehicle and cargo monitoring but also infrastructure monitoring Container integrity 23 U.S. DOT Research Organization Sandwich structure—load blunting and energy absorption 1 6-10 years Not identified Need funding; must meet weight and space requirements Primarily intended for protecting railroad tank cars Table 3-4. Evaluation results of technologies available in 6–10 years.

Technology Development Level (to right) 1. Basic technology principles observed 2. Equipment and process concept formulated 3. Prototype demonstrated in laboratory environment 4. Product operational in limited real-world environment 5. Product available for commercial use Networked RFID, ubiquitous sensors and cargo monitoring Pressure gauges & chemical detection sensors Fiber-optic/photonic sensors & optical scanners Advanced locks & seals Intelligent video tracking & surveillance Wireless power Nanopiezoelectronics Plastic thin-film organic solar cells Container integrity Figure 3-1. Development roadmap for the nine most promising emerging technologies.

Next: Chapter 4 - Conclusions and Recommendations »
Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security Get This Book
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TRB’s Hazardous Materials Cooperative Research Program (HMCRP) Report 4: Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety and Security explores near-term (less than 5 years) and longer-term (5–10 years) technologies that are candidates for enhancing the safety and security of hazardous materials transportation for use by shippers, carriers, emergency responders, or government regulatory and enforcement agencies.

The report examines emerging generic technologies that hold promise of being introduced during these near- and longer-term spans. It also highlights potential impediments (e.g., technical, economic, legal, and institutional) to, and opportunities for, their development, deployment, and maintenance.

The research focused on all modes used to transport hazardous materials (trucking, rail, marine, air, and pipeline) and resulted in the identification of nine highly promising emerging technologies.

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