A -- EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION INTO THE ELECTROMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF LOW TEMPERATURE SUPERCONDUCTORS

The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST), Electromagnetics Division proposes to negotiate on a sole source basis contract under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1) with the University of Colorado to perform electromechanical measurements of the effect of strain and stress on the critical current of low and high temperature superconductors. The goal is to determine the strain sensitivity of the high-field niobium-tin superconductors for the Department of Energy (DOE) fusion magnet program, and the electromechanical performance of Y-Ba-Cu-O coated conductors and Bi-2223 composites in conditions that simulate applications such as power transmission lines for the DOE program. The measurements are to be performed using specially designed NIST cryostats. The staff at the University of Colorado has a combination of skills and past experience in cryogenic-system design, handling of cryogenic fluids, operation of both high and low current sources, and extensive experience in axial-strain, transverse-compressive stress, and fatigue cycling experiments and measurement equipments. The staff also has a thorough knowledge of conduction properties and flux-pinning force mechanisms of superconductors to enable staff the essential analysis/interpretation needed to complete the tasks of this job. Specific work tasks will include measuring the effects of axial strain, transverse-compressive stress, and fatigue cycles on the critical-current of brittle superconducting materials including Nb3Sn, Y-Ba-Cu-O, and Bi-2223 composites. Full analysis of the data will be performed and strain models established.The contract period is August 1, 2005 through March 31, 2006. This procurement is being conducted per FAR Part 13, Simplified Acquisition Procedures (NTE $100K). This synopsis is issued for information only. No competitive solicitation is planned. Based on our market research, the University of Colorado’s Physics Department is the only contractor who can meet the requirements of this procurement. Information submitted in response to this notice will be used solely to determine whether or not use of competitive procedures to fulfill this requirement would be in the Government's best interest and must address qualifications pertinent to this requirement. Terms and Conditions can be found on http://www.arnet.gov/far/ and agency level protest procedures can be found on web site http://oamweb.osec.doc.gov/conops/reflib/alp1296.htm. Any questions regarding this notice must be submitted in writing to the attention of Ms. Rima (e-mail preferred). Anticipated award date is June 17, 2005.