1. Intrinsic and Applied Unique Identifiers
PNNL-SA
Intrinsic and Applied Unique Identifiers
Image: Abstract Data Visualization – Stock Photo
August 25, 2019
Keith Tolk, Milagro Consulting
Jacob Benz, PNNL
Matt MacDougall, PNNL

2. Seals vs. Unique Identifiers (UIDs)
Can serve as substitute for treaty accountable item (TAI)
Provides evidence of TAI integrity
Self tamper indicating and identifies itself
Can be passive, active, adhesive, loop
UIDs:
Mechanism to identify and track TAIs
Provides evidence of TAI authenticity
Self tamper indicating
Can be electronic, physical, applied or intrinsic
Seals can function as a UID, but not all UIDs can function as a seal
Seals vs. Unique Identifiers (UIDs)

3. Examples For New START: Serial Numbers
Applied UID: Reflective Particle Tag on Metal
Applied UID: E-Cup
For New START: Serial Numbers
Intrinsic UID: Eddy Current of Weld
Intrinsic UID: Ultrasonic Intrinsic Tag

4. Applied UIDs Pros Cons Flexible in application and location
Variability in forms to accommodate multiple situations
Usually includes human readable component
Familiarity may lead to easier certification
Established and well-vetted
Cons
May be easier to remove and replace
Able to interrogate
Not integral to TAI
Potential for wear and tear or operational impact
May be environmentally sensitive

5. Intrinsic UIDs Pros Cons Difficult to counterfeit or tamper with
Utilizes inherent characteristics of material
No operational impact
Robust to operational environment – to limits of material
Cons
May require complex equipment
More difficult certification?
May not include visible or human readable component
May require touching item for confirmation
Less flexibility on application or location – constrained by material and features

6. Conclusions
UIDs are important for maintaining confidence in TAI authenticity and establishing evidence of treaty compliance
Allows for accounting of all declared items
Mechanism for assuring treaty limits are being met
Allows for ability to confirm correctness of declarations
Opportunities for both types of UIDs
Intrinsic offers security from counterfeiting or substitution of TAI
Applied offers ease and flexibility of use
Trade-offs should be weighed against monitoring objectives