The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is currently preparing research and development program plans for the successive improvement of US Government radioactive material detection systems/capability to be deployed over two time periods: 3-5 years for near-term solutions and 6-10 years for longer-term solutions. To assist in this effort, DTRA is attempting to determine potential R&D strategies and the identification of appropriate technologies that support the development of an effective DTRA program plan. The goal of the program is the development of improved detection and characterization of radiological threats; improved sensitivity, selectivity, and specificity of measurements conducted in a field environment; innovative means to identify Special Nuclear Materials (SNM); advanced technologies for verification and compliance monitoring; and portable hand held instruments with minimal battery power needs for use by non-technical personnel to support inspections in the radiological arena. DTRA is requesting organizations (commercial, academic, non-profit, etc.) conducting research and development in the radioactive material detection and identification arena to provide information regarding their current efforts and areas of potential research. Information should be limited to research that demonstrates quantifiable improvements in such areas as: detection stand-off; system accuracy (fewer false positives, higher detection rates); sensitivity; resolution; processing electronics; system integration; communication protocol (for data retrieval, as necessary); analysis software; decision support systems; and related criteria. Detection systems must also satisfy operational constraints for system size, weight, volume, power, reliability, durability, maintenance, and ease of use. Desired detection system improvements include, but are not limited to: gamma passive and active interrogation technology; neutron passive and active interrogation technologies; and alternative technologies to traditional gamma and neutron detection such as (but not limited to) x-ray fluorescence, sensor networks (statistical optimization), ionization density, etc. This notice solicits information regarding current and potential research in the radioactive material detection and identification field that addresses the above goals and objectives. It is expected that proffered information will aid DTRA in preparing a roadmap for future detector/system development. Request information be submitted to Dr. Karen Hirsch via e-mail,
[email protected] no later than 15 December 2003. Responses shall be no longer than five pages and shall be in Adobe Acrobat or Microsoft Word format. Inclusion of Rough Order of Magnitude estimates for the cost to complete the successive near- and longer-term R&D programs is also desired and highly encouraged. Maturity and risk level of the supporting technologies should also be discussed. This notice is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP) and is not to be construed as a commitment by DTRA. DTRA does not intend to award a contract on the basis of this notice or reimburse the costs incurred by providing the information requested under this notice.