Applications for any of the below research topics are due June 20, 2025, 11:59 p.m. EST.
FY 2025 CAAP NOFO Research Topics
Threat Prevention
Topic 1: Knowledge Development – Risk Evaluation of Vehicle Strikes on Aboveground Pipeline Equipment and Facilities
The objective of this research project is to evaluate the risks and consequences of motor vehicle accidents impacting aboveground pipelines and pipeline equipment. Between 2010 and the present, motor vehicle strikes accounted for 204 incidents and 24 deaths (17.5 percent of total fatalities) on gas distribution pipelines. This topic aims to provide the industry with guidance on reducing both the frequency of these incidents and the associated injuries or loss of life. The study must investigate risk factors that can affect the frequency of motor vehicle strikes or their consequences. In addition, it must identify designs, methods, equipment, or other countermeasures that can be used to reduce the risk of such incidents and provide guidance on how to use them.
Topic 2: Technology Development – Technology, Equipment, or Procedures to Prevent Human Error
The objective of this research project is to develop technology that can reduce the frequency of pipeline accidents or incidents caused by human error. PHMSA data shows that incorrect operation is a frequent cause of pipeline accidents and incidents and that these events carry an increased risk of injury or death. Often, these events are caused by the complexity of the processes, equipment, or environment that do not fully account for human factors. This topic seeks to develop or improve equipment, technology, or procedures that can assist personnel in doing their jobs safely. Focus should be on processes that are performed in environments which are difficult for human personnel to safely manage. Projects must identify one or more specific pipeline operations or maintenance tasks commonly performed on pipelines regulated under 49 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) Part 192 or Part 195 to which the project is applicable.
Materials
Topic 3: Knowledge Development – Testing, Modeling, and Verifying Strain Capacity in Vintage Pipelines
The objective of this research project is to improve confidence and accuracy of strain capacity prediction for vintage pipelines. Currently, pipeline design is based mostly on stress-based design criteria, which is a method focusing on the allowable stress limit of pipe materials. In the past several decades, the pipeline industry has increasingly adopted strain-based design and assessment (SBDA) methods in order to manage pipeline integrity challenges stemming from geohazards. Strain-based design is a method based on the allowable strain limit (strain capacity) that is suitable for ductile materials subjected to displacement-controlled loads, such as by geohazards, aimed at ensuring structural integrity. While strain-based assessment involves assessing the integrity of existing—in this project, vintage—pipelines under current and potential threats. PHMSA is seeking research to test and verify strain capacity for vintage pipelines with the goal to improve the confidence and accuracy of the predictive models using SBDA methods.
Anomaly Detection
Topic 4: Technology Development – Non-Metallic Pipe Inspection Technology
The objective of this research project is to develop innovative and cost-effective in-line inspection technologies for non-metallic (plastic and composite) pipes to accurately detect and quantify defects in pipes, welds, or joints. The project will explore new technologies, modifications of existing technologies, or alternative approaches to enhance the detection of internal anomalies in non-metallic pipeline systems. According to a PHMSA data analysis (2010–present), plastic pipelines have exhibited a higher incident count related to pipe, weld, or joint failures compared to steel pipelines. A robust inspection solution is needed to identify defects quickly and accurately in buried non-metallic pipelines.
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)
Topic 5: Knowledge Development – Acceptable Methods for Modeling Shrouding or Obstructions for Pressurized Liquid Releases
The objective of this research project is to explore shrouding structures and evaluate acceptable methods for modeling shrouding or obstructions as a mitigation measure for pressurized leaks. The study will assess the effectiveness of shrouding in limiting vapor dispersion, identify best practices for design and implementation, and provide recommendations for regulatory compliance and facility safety enhancements. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 59A-2001 section 2.2.3.4, incorporated by reference in 49 CFR § 193.2059, requires: “Provision to be made to minimize the possibility of a flammable mixture of vapors from a design spill…reaching a property line that can be built upon that would result in a distinct hazard.” Shrouding can serve as a protective measure to mitigate vapor dispersion following a loss of containment resulting in a release of hazardous fluid at liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities and reduce potential hazards to the public. A standardized approach to shrouding design and modeling will help improve consistency in implementation across LNG facilities. This research will support industry stakeholders by identifying effective strategies for shrouding placement, material selection, and performance evaluation in various operating environments.