A -- ELECTROMECHANICAL PROPERTIES EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION

The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST), Magnetic Technology 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 on the critical current of low-temperature superconductors. The goal is to determine the stress sensitivity of the high-field niobium-tin superconductors for high-energy-physics-accelerator and fusion magnet programs. 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, and operation of both high and low current sources. The staff also has a thorough knowledge of conduction properties and flux-pinning force mechanisms of superconductors needed to complete the essential analysis and interpretation of data. Specific work tasks will include measuring the effect of strain on the critical-current of brittle superconducting materials, as well as commissioning and testing the lambda-fridge in our high-field magnet system. In the case of superconductors, analysis of the data will be performed in terms of the Strain Scaling Law and deviatoric strain models. The contract period is January 1, 2005 through April 30, 2005. 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 December 17, 2004.