Technology Readiness Level | Description |
TRL 1: Basic principles observed and reported | Lowest level of technology readiness. Scientific research begins to be translated into applied research and development (R&D). Examples might include paper studies of a technology's basic properties. |
TRL 2: Technology concept and/or application formulated | Invention begins. Once basic principles are observed, practical applications can be invented. Applications are speculative, and there may be no proof or detailed analysis to support the assumptions. |
TRL 3: Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof of concept | Active R&D is initiated. This includes analytical studies and laboratory studies to physically validate the analytical predictions of separate elements of the technology. |
TRL 4: Product and/or process validation in laboratory environment | Basic technological products and/or processes are tested to establish that they will work. |
TRL 5: Product and/or process validation in relevant environment | Reliability of product and/or process innovation increases significantly. The basic products and/or processes are integrated so they can be tested in a simulated environment. |
TRL 6: Product and/or process prototype demonstration in a relevant environment | Prototypes are tested in a relevant environment. Represents a major step up in a technology's demonstrated readiness. Examples include testing a prototype in a simulated operational environment. |
TRL 7: Product and/or process prototype demonstration in an operational environment | Prototype near or at planned operational system and requires demonstration of an actual prototype in an operational environment (e.g. in a vehicle). |
TRL 8: Actual product and/or process completed and qualified through test and demonstration | Innovation has been proven to work in its final form and under expected conditions. In almost all cases, this TRL represents the end of true system development. |
TRL 9: Actual product and/or process proven successful | Actual application of the product and/or process innovation in its final form or function |