When radiological material is shipped, it is most vulnerable to theft during transportation. The material, the container it is shipped in, and even the semi-truck pulling the trailer are at risk of manipulation.
ABOUT GEARS
The Global Evaluation, Analysis, Research, and Security Facility, referred to as GEARS, allows researchers and subject matter experts to develop and test proof of concept designs and mature technologies and systems to outfit transport vehicles with a suite of security measures to ensure safe delivery of radioactive material.
Established in 2021 at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, GEARS is designed to provide a place for scientists, engineers, and security experts to test security equipment in support of sponsor requirements. The facility will be the home of multiple vehicles, including two late-model semi-trucks, light-duty trucks, and multiple flatbed trailers; shipping casks; ISO containers with security breaching/penetration equipment; testing and evaluation equipment; and safety equipment with exterior lighting and portable generators.
TECHNOLOGIES
GEARS is ideal for:
• Class 8 heavy duty truck research
• Research, test, and evaluate security technologies
• Rapid prototyping of security technologies
• Configuration testing against theft and sabotage scenarios
• Performance evaluation activities such as drills and exercises