Technology readiness level

Technology readiness level

Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is a method developed within Horizon 2020 to denote the degree of maturity of a technology. The measurement system provides an understanding of technology status throughout the innovation chain.

By evaluating projects against the parameters for each TRL level, you can classify the projects based on their degree of development.

There are nine TRL levels defined where 1 is the lowest level and 9 the highest.

Swedish Mining Innovation uses the same definition as the EU. You may find more information on TRL levels here.

 

TRL 9 – Actual system proven in operational environment (competitive manufacturing in the case of key enabling technologies; or in space) Full commercial application, technology available for consumers.

TRL 8 – System complete and qualified. Technology solution that is the first of its kind. Manufacturing problems solved.

TRL 7 – System prototype demonstration in operational environment.

TRL 6 – Technology demonstrated in relevant environment (industrially relevant environment in the case of key enabling technologies). Prototype system tested in intended environment close to expected performance.

TRL 5 – Technology validated in relevant environment (industrially relevant environment in the case of key enabling technologies). Large scale prototype tested in intended environment.

TRL 4 – Technology validated in lab. Small scale prototype built in a laboratory environment (“ugly” prototype).

TRL 3 – Experimental proof of concept. Applied research. The first laboratory tests have been done.

TRL 2 – Technology concept formulated. Both concepts and applications are defined.

TRL 1 – Basic principles observed. Principles are assumed but experimental evidence is lacking.

 

 

 

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