Analysis of 49 CFR-Compliant Hazmat Packaging Degradation Under Extreme Conditions

The contract focuses on evaluating how hazardous materials transport packaging, compliant with 49 CFR standards, degrades under extreme conditions such as high heat, physical impact, and chemical exposure resulting from failing electric vehicle batteries. The study aims to assess the structural integrity and containment performance of these packaging systems when subjected to realistic threat scenarios linked to the thermal runaway and chemical release characteristics of advanced battery technologies. Testing will simulate the most severe environmental and mechanical stresses that packaging may encounter during transportation or in the aftermath of battery failure events. The work is being conducted under the auspices of the Department of Transportation’s Office of Hazardous Materials Safety, with performance taking place at the Washington Navy Yard. The solicitation is classified as a subcontract and falls under NAICS code 541690, indicating it involves other scientific and technical consulting services. Interested parties must submit responses by August 24, 2026, and the opportunity was posted on July 31, 2026. The objective is to generate data that can inform future regulatory updates, packaging design standards, and safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with transporting hazardous materials alongside or near energy storage systems.