TR1: Basic principle observed and reported  

• Identification of the new concept
• Identification of the integration of the concept
• Identification of expected barriers
• Identification of materials and technologies based on theoretical fundamentals/literature data

 

TRL2: Technology concept formulated

• Enhanced knowledge of technologies
• New concept is investigated and refined
• First evaluation about the feasibility is performed
• Initial numerical knowledge
• Qualitative description of interactions between technologies
• Definition of the prototyping approach and preliminary technical specifications for laboratory test

 

TRL3: Proof of Concept

• First laboratory scale prototype (proof-of-concept) or numerical model realized
• Testing at laboratory level of the innovative technological element (being material, sub-component, software tool, …), but not the whole integrated system
• Key parameters characterizing the technology (or the fuel) are identified
• Verification of the proof of concept through simulation tools and cross-validation with literature data (if applicable)

 

TRL4: Technology validated in Lab

• (Reduced scale) prototype developed and integrated with complementing subsystems at laboratory level
• Validation of the new technology through enhanced numerical analysis (if applicable)
• Key Performance Indicators are measurable
• The prototype shows repeatable/stable performance (either TRL4 or TRL5, depending on the technology)

 

TRL5: Technology validated in relevant environment

• (Reduced scale) prototype developed and integrated with complementing subsystems at laboratory level
• Validation of the new technology through enhanced numerical analysis (if applicable). • Key Performance Indicators are measurable
• The prototype shows repeatable/stable performance (either TRL4 or TRL5, depending on the technology)

 

TRL6: Technology demonstrated in relevant environment

• Demonstration in relevant environment of the technology
• The process is reliable and the performances match the expectations
• Manufacturing approach is defined
• Environmental, regulatory and socio-economic issues are addressed

 

TRL7: Model prototype demonstrated in operational environment

• Pre-commercial system is demonstrated in operational environment
• Compliancy with relevant environment conditions, authorization issues, local/national standards is guaranteed, at least for the demo site
• Manufacturing approach is defined (either TRL6 or TRL7, depending on the technology)

TRL8:  Technology system complete and qualified

• Technology experimented in deployment conditions (i.e. real world) and has proven its functioning in its final form
• Manufacturing process is stable enough for entering a low-rate production
• Training and maintenance documentation are completed
• Integration at system level is completed and mature
• Full compliance with obligations, certifications and standards of the addressed markets

TRL9: Actual system proven in operational environment

• Technology proven fully operational and ready for commercialization
• Full production chain is in place and all materials are available
• System optimized for full rate production

SRL1: The generic societal need and associated readiness aspects are identified

SRL2: The problem is formulated, solution concept and potential impacts are proposed; societal readiness issues are appraised; relevant stakeholders for the development of the solution are identified

SRL3: Initial testing of proposed solution together with relevant stakeholders; Initial sharing of the proposed solution with relevant stakeholders: a limited group of the society knows the solution or similar initiatives

SRL4: Solution validated through pilot testing in controlled environments to substantiate proposed impacts and societal readiness

SRL5: Solution validated through pilot testing in real or realistic environments and by relevant stakeholders

SRL6: Solution demonstrated in real world environments and in cooperation with relevant stakeholders to gain feedback on potential impacts

SRL7: Refinement of the solutions and, if needed, retesting in real world environments with relevant stakeholders

SRL8: Targeted solutions, as well as a plan for societal adaptation, complete and qualified

SRL9: Actual solution proven in relevant societal environments after launch on the market