The VERA project (Verifiable Cleaning Documents) has officially opened its digital cleaning certificate solution to industry-wide testing, offering chemical logistics companies a secure and efficient alternative to traditional paper-based documentation.
Developed through a collaboration between Fraunhofer FIT, TALKE Group and Spherity GmbH, the system enables tank cleaning stations, logistics providers, shippers and software vendors to issue, store and verify cleaning certificates electronically. Certificates can be accessed instantly via a link or QR code, reducing administrative effort and improving transparency across the supply chain.
The chemical industry demands the highest standards of cleanliness for tanks, containers and silo vehicles. Until now, proof of cleaning has largely relied on paper records, creating inefficiencies and limiting traceability. VERA’s digital certificates address these challenges by streamlining workflows and ensuring critical information is available in real time.
Key benefits include drivers can present certificates immediately after cleaning; dispatch teams can verify compliance with transport requirements; customers can notify loading sites in advance and certificates can be shared digitally without email attachments.
Each certificate is issued with a unique identifier and cryptographic signature, functioning as a tamper-proof digital seal.
Companies retain full control of their data, as certificates are managed independently rather than stored in a centralised database.
The solution is designed for seamless integration into existing workflows, either as a standalone application or embedded into industry software. A major integration step is already underway with C-BANK, a widely used platform for tank cleaning facilities.
“From the outset, public funding for the project was intended to make the results accessible to as many companies as possible. We are therefore looking to engage additional users, gather practical experience and continue developing the solution together wi th industry partners,” says Lisa Klug, project manager for VERA at Fraunhofer FIT.
VERA launches digital cleaning certificates for chemical logistics industry
