TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY

SIMPLE: Strategic Innovation Methodology for PLanning Effectively

SIMPLE is an innovative software that optimizes the modernization process for industrial plants, improving operations effectively and efficiently.

Overview:        In today's rapidly evolving industrial landscape, it is crucial to have a systematic approach to modernization. Traditional methods often lack a holistic view and fail to consider the overall impact of individual upgrades. This gap in the market, combined with the increasing demand for efficient and cost-effective modernization, has led to the development of INL's innovative tool. This tool addresses the need for a comprehensive and automated solution in industries such as nuclear power utilities, where existing tools do not offer such extensive capabilities.

Description:    SIMPLE utilizes a unique tree-structure model to analyze and suggest optimal scopes and sequences for modernization. It incorporates different components such as hardware, software, and human activities to create a comprehensive plan. Through computational operations, it evaluates objectives and provides solutions that maximize return on investment, minimize risk, and shorten deployment time. Its distinctive approach encompasses a wide range of metrics, mathematical frameworks, and an optimizer for thorough analysis.

Benefits:          

• Automated and Systematic Approach: Streamlines the modernization process, ensuring all aspects are considered.
• Customizable Metrics: Adapts to specific industry needs and changing technology landscapes.
• Cost-Effective Solutions: Maximizes ROI with low capital investment and risk.
• Efficient Deployment: Shortens the time frame for implementing modernization projects.
• Versatile Application: Suitable for various industries beyond plant modernization.

Applications:    

• Utilities and Energy Sector: For modernizing operations and infrastructure.
• Management Consultants: To provide strategic guidance to clients.
• Government Agencies: In policy-making and subsidy management.
• Research and Development: To prioritize impactful technologies.
• Net-Zero Initiatives: To plan and track sustainable objectives.

Development Status:  Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 1: Basic principles observed and reported.

IP Status:         Provisional Patent Filing No. 63/515,835, “Systems and Methods for Objective Management,” BEA Docket No. BA-1494.

Partner with Idaho National Laboratory (INL) for Access to Pioneering Technology and Mutual Growth

Managed by Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC, INL offers unique opportunities for businesses to access and license advanced technology. Our agreements are tailored to provide flexibility and affordability, particularly supporting small businesses in their growth and innovation endeavors. By licensing our intellectual property, you not only gain access to groundbreaking technology but also contribute to economic development and public welfare. We invite you to explore our technology portfolio, designed to give your organization a competitive edge in the market. Learn more about our licensing opportunities and the support we provide at: https://inl.gov/inl-initiatives/technology-deployment. For specific discussions on how your business can benefit, please contact Andrew Rankin at td@inl.gov.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services to assist in the development of this technology.

Revolutionizing Financial Performance Analysis with TEAL: Bridging Engineering and Economics

Introduction

TEAL, the Tool for Economic AnaLysis, emerges as a groundbreaking financial calculator plugin designed to seamlessly integrate with the RAVEN framework. It revolutionizes the way economic assessments are conducted by combining detailed engineering insights with financial performance metrics such as Net Present Value, incorporating factors like inflation, taxation, and capital expenditure scaling.

Background

In the quest to assess the commercial viability of new technologies, the challenge often lies in accurately incorporating detailed engineering assessments and managing the inherent risk in economic analyses. TEAL was developed to address these challenges, leveraging the computational prowess of RAVEN to provide a robust framework for techno-economic assessments. This innovative approach is particularly crucial for the Department of Energy's Nuclear Energy (DOE NE) sector and beyond, where economic assessments must navigate a landscape rife with uncertainties.

Software Description

TEAL stands out by its ability to link with external models through RAVEN, facilitating the creation of detailed cash flows based on complex physical models. Beyond traditional financial metrics, TEAL offers financial risk and probabilistic metrics, empowering users to conduct financial risk augmentations and optimizations. Its integration with RAVEN enables capabilities like robust optimization, sensitivity analysis, and large parallel simulations, thereby reducing computational costs while enhancing scalability and precision in financial analysis.

Advantages

• Integrated Engineering and Financial Analysis: Unifies complex engineering models with financial performance calculations for comprehensive assessments.
• Advanced Financial Risk Metrics: Offers unique insights into financial risks, leveraging probabilistic analysis and optimization.
• Efficient Computational Use: Reduces computational time significantly, thanks to High-Performance Computing (HPC) capabilities.
• Versatile Application: Suitable for a wide range of fields, including nuclear energy, integrated energy systems, and any sector where engineering and economic assessments intersect.
• Innovative Methodologies: Incorporates advanced statistical methodologies and risk analysis approaches from nuclear reactor safety analyses.

Applications

• Economic Assessments of Integrated Energy Systems: Ideal for analyzing systems that aim to reduce CO2 emissions cost-effectively.
• Techno-Economic Analyses: Enhances the commercial potential and investment priority determinations for new technologies.
• Nuclear Technology Economic Assessments: Increases the integrity of economic evaluations in the nuclear sector.
• Cross-Sector Economic Analysis: Applicable in sectors requiring detailed engineering designs alongside economic and risk analyses.

Explore how TEAL can transform your approach to economic assessments, marrying detailed engineering models with deep financial analysis. For a comprehensive tool that elevates your project's financial performance analysis amidst uncertainties, visit our website and discover the potential of TEAL in your sector.

This software is open source and available at no cost. Download now by visiting the product's GitHub page.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services to assist in the development of this technology.

Open Source Software: LIGGGHTS-INL: Pioneering Biomass Feedstock Handling with Advanced Particle Simulation

In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, the design and optimization of biomass feedstock handling equipment are crucial. LIGGGHTS-INL stands at the forefront of this challenge, offering a unique open-source software solution that combines the power of Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations with real-world laboratory validations to address the specific needs of biomass particle flow modeling.

The transition to biofuels as a renewable energy source is hindered by significant processing challenges, notably the efficient handling of biomass materials. Traditional equipment, designed for hard particulate materials, falls short when faced with biomass particles' irregular, cohesive nature. Recognizing this gap, the U.S. Department of Energy's Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) identified the need for specialized software to model biomass particle dynamics accurately, leading to the development of LIGGGHTS-INL.

LIGGGHTS-INL is an extension of LIGGGHTS, built on the LAMMPS molecular dynamics simulator, tailored for granular and granular heat transfer simulations. It introduces capability enhancements for biomass feedstock applications, incorporating semi-empirical, experimentally validated mechanistic laws. This software is a robust platform for the numerical prediction of biomass particle behavior, facilitating the design and optimization of handling equipment.

Advantages

• Experimentally Validated: Integrates laboratory experiment data from INL’s Biomass Feedstock National User Facility for accurate modeling.
• Open-Source Flexibility: Freely available for use, supporting collaboration and innovation within the bioenergy community.
• Industry-Specific Design Tool: Tailored for biomass feedstock handling equipment, addressing the unique challenges of biofuel production.
• Enhanced Market Competitiveness: Aims to lower biofuel production costs by mitigating standard processing upsets such as jamming and clogging.

Applications

• Biomass Feedstock Handling Equipment Design: Optimizing the flow and processing of biomass materials.
• Biofuel Production Efficiency: Enhancing the reliability and cost-effectiveness of biofuel production facilities.
• Research and Development: Supporting bioenergy research with a platform for simulating and testing biomass particle dynamics.
• Collaborative Opportunities: Facilitating partnerships and innovation in bioenergy technologies.

Dive into the future of biofuel production with LIGGGHTS-INL. Explore our advanced particle simulation software to enhance your biomass feedstock handling processes. Download now and join our collaborative community in pushing the boundaries of bioenergy technology.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services to assist in the development of this technology.

Open Source Software: EMRALD: Pioneering Dynamic Risk Assessment for Enhanced Reliability and Safety

In an era where risk management is paramount, the Event-Modeled Risk Assessment using Linked Diagrams (EMRALD) software emerges as a revolutionary tool. Developed by the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), EMRALD sets a new standard in dynamic probabilistic risk assessment (PRA), offering unparalleled capabilities to model and analyze complex system interactions in real-time.

Traditional PRA methods, while effective, often fall short of capturing the intricate dynamics and interdependencies within complex systems, particularly in high-stakes environments such as nuclear power plants. Recognizing this gap, EMRALD was conceived to bridge traditional PRA with dynamic modeling, leveraging state-of-the-art graphical interfaces and simulation integration to offer a more intuitive and comprehensive risk assessment process.

EMRALD stands out with its intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) and object-oriented modeling approach, facilitating the creation of detailed, dynamic simulations of complex systems. This software is designed to mirror real-world scenarios closely, allowing users to incorporate physical components, operator actions, and environmental conditions into their models. By providing a dynamic framework that includes fault trees, event trees, and state diagrams, EMRALD enables a seamless transition from static to dynamic PRA, enhancing the accuracy and utility of risk assessments.

Advantages

• User-Friendly Interface: Simplifies the modeling process, making it accessible to a broader range of professionals.
• Dynamic Integration Allows easy coupling with other simulation applications, enhancing model realism and depth.
• Comprehensive Modeling: Captures the sequence and timing of events in detail, offering insights into potential failure paths and critical timings.
• Flexible Application: Supports nuclear and non-nuclear industries, enabling a wide range of real-world use cases.
• Research to Industry Transition: Designed to make dynamic PRA practical and sustainable across various sectors.

Applications

• Nuclear Safety Analysis: Enhances the reliability and safety of nuclear power facilities through detailed risk modeling.
• Industrial Risk Management: Offers industries outside of nuclear power the ability to integrate dynamic risk assessment into their safety protocols.
• Simulation Enhancement: Allows for adding real-world scenarios to existing simulation tools, identifying weak points and critical timings in complex systems.
• Operational Decision Making: Supports more informed decision-making by providing detailed insights into system reliability and potential failure modes.

Discover how EMRALD can elevate your risk management strategy to new heights. Visit our GitHub page to explore the software further, download it, and join the forefront of dynamic probabilistic risk assessment.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services to assist in the development of this technology.

Advanced Bonding Method for Heterogeneous Systems

An advanced method for seamlessly bonding similar and dissimilar materials, maintaining grain structure to minimize disruptions at the bond interface and enhancing material properties and integrity.

The Challenge:

In the high-stakes realms of aerospace, electronics, and nuclear industries, the integrity of material bonds can mean the difference between success and catastrophic failure. Traditionally, bonding similar and dissimilar materials often involves using interlayers or powders, which unfortunately creates visible bond lines that can become points of weakness. Researchers at INL have pioneered a groundbreaking method to achieve bonding of dissimilar materials through a multi-stage sintering process.

How it Works:

This innovative bonding method is much less energy intensive relative to other diffusion welding type technologies. The process also eliminates the need for additional interface materials to achieve material bonding. It removes the weaknesses associated with visible bond lines, providing a stronger, more reliable bond for a range of materials including ceramics, metals, and various combinations. The method has been demonstrated using Electric Field Assisted Sintering (EFAS) technologies, but it is adaptable for use with multiple sintering technologies, offering flexibility across different manufacturing contexts.

Key Advantages:

• Enhanced Durability: Bonding without visible bond lines significantly reduces potential failure points, resulting in stronger and more reliable materials.
• Energy Efficiency: When coupled with Electric Field Assisted Sintering, the method reduces processing time by an order of magnitude vs. hot press, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods
• Versatility: The technology is applicable not only in EFAS furnaces but can also be adapted for hot press, hot isostatic press, and conventional box or tube furnaces.
• No Additional Materials Needed: Eliminates the use of interlayers or powders, reducing material costs and complexity in the bonding process.
• Improved Material Properties: Bonding partially sintered materials allows for increased deformation at the bonding interface, enhancing overall quality of the bond.

Problems Solved

• Elimination of detectable grain structure alterations (bond lines) at the interface, which can lead to inferior material properties.
• Addresses limitations in bonding dissimilar materials
• Reduced energy consumption relative to traditional bonding methods
• Capable of joining materials with complex geometries

Market Applications

• Electronics manufacturing for enhanced component durability
• Nuclear industry for improved material reliability under extreme conditions
• Aerospace industry for stronger structural materials
• Manufacturing of ceramics with complex shapes and high strength requirements
• Development of composite materials with superior mechanical properties

Development Status: TRL 6

US Provisional Patent Application No. 63/593,137, “METHODS OF BONDING OF SIMILAR AND DISSIMILAR MATERIALS AND RELATED ARTICLES,” BEA Docket No. BA-1444

INL Tech Partnerships: Your Gateway to Innovation

INL offers strategic access to proprietary technology, enhancing small business growth and contributing to economic and public advancement. We cater licensing terms to each business we work with, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements. Engage with our diverse technology offerings to propel your company forward.

Learn more about our licensing opportunities and the support we provide at https://inl.gov/technology-deployment/. For specific discussions on how your business can benefit, please contact td@inl.gov.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services for the development of this technology.

Electric Field Assisted Sintering of Bimetallic Materials

A novel method for joining dissimilar metals through electric field assisted sintering, offering a superior alternative to traditional welding techniques.

The Challenge:

In industries where combining dissimilar materials is crucial, traditional welding methods like explosion welding or friction stir welding have significant limitations and high costs. This document presents an innovative alternative: creating bimetallic materials using electric field assisted sintering (EFAS). This technology provides a practical solution mainly for the aerospace, heat transfer, and manufacturing sectors. For example, it allows the fusion of aluminum and stainless steel without the size and cost limitations of traditional connectors.

How it Works:

This technology presents an innovative approach to fabricate bimetallic materials by utilizing electric field assisted sintering (EFAS). It enables the joining of dissimilar materials, such as stainless steel and aluminum, which are challenging to weld by conventional means. Utilizing electric fields, EFAS ablates surface oxides and facilitates controlled diffusion at lower temperatures, allowing for precise bonding without additional interfacing materials, counteracting the risks of galvanic corrosion effectively. The process achieves bonding without the need for bulky mechanical fasteners, explosion welding, or friction stir welding, making it a rapid and efficient alternative for creating bimetallic couplings.

Key Advantages:

• Facilitates the joining of dissimilar materials efficiently.
• Reduces the need for bulky mechanical fasteners, lowering space requirements and leak potential.
• Offers precise control over pressure and temperature, leading to superior bond quality and reproducibility.
• Eliminates the need for consumable materials, setup time, and post-bond processing associated with explosion welding.
• More environmentally friendly and safer than traditional welding methods.

Problems Solved

• Challenges in bonding dissimilar materials with significantly different properties.
• High cost and complexity of traditional bimetallic fabrication methods.
• Limitations in shape and batch size associated with friction stir welding and explosion welding.
• Galvanic corrosion issues arising from the use of interfacing materials.

Market Applications

• Joining aluminum to stainless steel pipes in various industries, eliminating the need for bulky flanges.
• Aerospace industry for joining lightweight aluminum parts to high strength steels without bolts or fasteners.
• Heat transfer applications, benefiting from aluminum's conductivity and stainless steel's toughness.
• Heating and cooling coil manufacturing, where cost reduction can significantly impact market competitiveness.

Development Status: TRL 5

US Provisional Patent Application No. 63/639,461, “METHODS FOR FORMING BIMETALLIC STRUCTURES AND ASSOCIATED STRUCTURES,” BEA Docket No. BA-1510

INL Tech Partnerships: Your Gateway to Innovation

INL offers strategic access to proprietary technology, enhancing small business growth and contributing to economic and public advancement. We cater licensing terms to each business we work with, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements. Engage with our diverse technology offerings to propel your company forward.

Learn more about our licensing opportunities and the support we provide at https://inl.gov/technology-deployment/. For specific discussions on how your business can benefit, please contact td@inl.gov.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services for the development of this technology.

ID BOUNDARY 5806(1), Riverside Road Improvements & ID BOUNDARY 5806(1)B, Riverside Road Improvements B

This work consists of: Grading, drainage, base, subexcavation, bridge rail, MSE wall, paving.

Project Location: West of Bonners Ferry, Idaho

Project Length: 4.489 Miles

Estimated Price Range: Between $10 and $20 Million

Tentative Fixed Completion Date: Fall/Winter 2025

See attachments for additional information.

Description:

This is a Request for Information (RFI) to obtain market and capability information from prospective offerors. Information may be used for planning purposes. This RFI is only for the purpose of identifying potential sources as part of USDA-Forest Service market research. No Request for Quote (RFQ) exists at this time; therefor, do not request a copy of an RFQ. A response to this notice is not an offer and will not be accepted by the Forest Service to form a binding contract. At this time, it is unknown when the Forest Service might solicit a contract for this work. Although "proposal" and "offeror" may be used in this Request for Information, your response will be treated as information only. It shall not be used as a proposal. Information received in response to this RFI will be safeguarded from unauthorized disclosure. Interested parties are responsible for adequately marking proprietary or competition sensitive information contained in their response.  

Background:

The Forest Service is contemplating utilizing Integrated Resource Service Contracts (IRSC) to accomplish a variety of projects. These can include traditional trading of goods (included forest products) for services performed; or Service IRSCs with no included forest products and all forest products available as Timber Subject to Agreement (TSA). These types of contracts are being considered on the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Work items included in this RFI, and other possible work items may be solicited in projects with various objectives.

If awarded, they shall be awarded under the following authority: Stewardship Authority: Section 604 (16 USC 6591c) of Public Law 108-148 as amended by Section 8205 of Public Law 113-79, the Agricultural Act of 2014—Grants the U.S. Forest Service (Government) permanent authority to enter into stewardship contracts or agreements to achieve land management goals for the National Forests or public lands that meet local and rural community needs. Section 8205 supersedes the temporary authority granted to the Forest Service (Government) in section 347 of Public Law 105-277, the Omnibus Consolidated and Emergency Appropriations Act, 1999.

Important to note: An Integrated Resource Service Contract (IRSC) differs from and Integrated Resource Timber Contract (IRTC) in that in an IRSC the service work cost is greater than the timber value.

NAICS: 115310: Support Services for Forestry, Size Standard: $34M Fuels Management Services.

              113310: Logging, Size Standard: 500 Employees

Stewardship authorities permit the Government to solicit this requirement as Full and Open competition.

Project Location:

The Katkee Fuels project is located approximately 5 miles south of Bonners Ferry, Idaho.  Access to the project area is via County and Forest Service roads within the Paradise Valley area east of Hwy 95.  The proposed project area lies generally within:  T61N R2E Sections 10, 15-18; Boise Meridian, Boundary County, Idaho.  Attachment 3. Katkee Fuels Proposed Heli Units map is provided with this notice to allow contractors to familiarize themselves with the project area.

Planned Period of Performance:

All work is tentatively anticipated to have the following final completion dates: December 31, 2030.

Description of Work:

The Katkee Fuels IRSC will increase the resiliency to wildfire and disease and improve forest health within the project area by using a variety of commercial and non-commercial treatments.  

The Katkee Fuels IRSC will address this with commercial and non-commercial treatment activities. Forest products will be a combination of commercial sawtimber and non-sawlog material. Proposed services will include hand falling, helicopter yarding (w/tops attached), processing and transportation of merchantable forest product material to various manufacturing facilities in the area.

Estimated Timber Volume is as follows:

Katkee Fuels: Sawtimber estimates – 8 MMBF (4000 CCF), Non-saw - 1 MMBF (500 CCF).  Non saw material is defined as topwood less than 6.0” diameter inside bark and containing a 16’ merchantable length to a 3.0” top DIB.

Pre-proposal Site Visit Date and Time:

Prior to issuing Call Orders, the Bonners Ferry Ranger District will be holding a site visit for prospective contractors to facilitate dialogue on contractual requirements that are anticipated in the contract and any operational limitations foreseen by attendees.

The Bonners Ferry Ranger District will hold a site visit for the Katkee Fuels IRSC on June 10, 2024. The Katkee Fuels IRSC site visit will begin at 9:00 a.m. PST with a meeting location at the Bonners Ferry Ranger District Office at 6286 Main St. in Bonners Ferry, Idaho. No RSVP is required. 

Information Requested:
**Respondents to this RFI are requested to answer the questions in the attached questionnaire form, 2. Questionnaire ID-IPF Katkee Fuels IRSC RFI and return to the contacts listed on the form. * *

Please answer the questions to the best of your ability and provide further information if you find it necessary to clarify your capabilities and ideas.

Return responses are requested by May 20, 2024 @ 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time.

Thank you very much for your time and energy in your response. Obtaining this information from industry is vital to successful development of an IRSC program to be used as a tool for treatment and restoration.
 

Please direct questions in writing to both:

Matt Daigle, Senior Acquisition Program Support Officer, matthew.daigle@usda.gov

Ed Koberstein, Timber Management Assistant, edward.koberstein@usda.gov

THIS IS NOT A SOLICITATION FOR COMPETITIVE QUOTES

THIS IS A SYNOPSIS OF AN UPCOMING SOLICITATION

Solicitation #:1202SA24Q9500

Estimated Response Date:  31 March 2024 at 1400 MT

Set Aside:  Total Small Business

NAICS Code:  488190 – Other Support Activates for Air Transportation

Small Business Size Standard:  $40 Million

Product Service Code:  J016 - Maintenance/Repair/Rebuild of Equipment - Aircraft Components and Accessories

The Department of Agriculture, U. S. Forest Service, Washington Office, has a requirement  to  provide  professional  mechanic services .  Work includes (but is not limited to) inspection, maintenance, repair, inventory management, engineering support, training, and coordination activities to ensure operational readiness for eight (8) Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems, second generation (MAFFS II), and associated ground equipment during the wildland fire season and throughout the year.  The contractor shall provide all personnel, tools, parts, transportation, supplies, equipment, travel, supervision, management (unless otherwise specified), operational sustainment, maintenance, training, and coordination activities for the MAFFS II program in support of national wildland fire suppression efforts when primary air resources are exhausted. The MAFFS II program shall respond 100% of the time, if activated, with everything necessary to perform the work in accordance with the upcoming solicitation.

Pursuant to Federal Acquisition Regulation’s Parts 12 and 13, the Forest Service intends to issue a request for quotes (RFQ) on or around 1 March 2024.  The notice shall be posted to Contract Opportunities at SAM.gov.  Quotes shall be due on or before the date stated on the SF-1449.  The Forest Service anticipates issuing the RFQ as a total small business set-aside.

The resulting contract will be a firm-fixed priced (FFP), indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract.  Anticipated periods of performance are a twelve (12)-month base period and four (4), twelve (12)-month option periods to be exercised at the Forest Service’s discretion. The anticipated period of performance start date, for the base year, is 1 May 2024 through 30 April 2025.

The Forest Service will consider all responsible contractors who submit a timely quote that conforms to the upcoming solicitation.  Interested parties shall submit quotes through e-mail to the Contracting Officer, Gwen Boyle, at Gwendolynn.Boyle@usda.gov.

Any contractor interested in doing business with the Federal Government shall be registered and active in the SAM.gov database prior to award of a contract.  SAM.gov is a Federal Government owned and operated website which is FREE of charge and is located at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/

All invoices for this procurement shall be submitted through the Department of Treasury’s Internet Payment Platform (IPP).  IPP is a Federal Government owned and operated website which is FREE of charge and is located at www.IPP.gov.

Interested contractors are responsible for monitoring SAM.gov for solicitation release and any subsequent postings.

For further information about the requirement, please contact Gwen Boyle at Gwendolynn.Boyle@usda.gov.

INL Innovation Spotlight

Innovative Data Concealment for Secure AI Research: The DIOD Methodology

The DIOD methodology offers a groundbreaking approach to share critical data for AI research, ensuring confidentiality while maintaining data utility.

Overview:      

In the era of big data, it is crucial to share information across platforms and organizations for innovation, especially in fields like AI research. However, the risk of sensitive data being reverse-engineered or compromised poses a significant challenge. Traditional data anonymization techniques often fall short, either by limiting data utility or failing to fully protect against data breaches.

The DIOD (Deceptive Infusion of Data) methodology emerges as a solution, particularly relevant for industries where data sharing is essential yet risky, such as defense, healthcare, and energy. Its market potential is vast, considering the increasing reliance on AI for materials discovery, energy optimization, and security.

Description:   

The DIOD methodology is an innovative approach to data sharing that successfully hides the identity of the system from which data originates, while still maintaining the functional dependencies required for AI research. It employs a non-invertible process to introduce deception into the data, ensuring the confidentiality of the original system's governing laws. Unlike traditional methods that can often degrade data quality or provide incomplete protection, DIOD preserves the crucial correlations needed for AI analysis. This enables researchers to utilize the data without jeopardizing the exposure of proprietary information.

Benefits:          

• Enhanced Security: Enables data sharing while protecting sensitive system information.
• Preserved Data Utility: Maintains crucial correlations and functional dependencies for AI research.
• Scalability: Provides an efficient solution for different data sizes and types.
• Compatibility: Applicable across various scientific and industrial sectors without compromising data integrity.
• Innovation in Anonymization: Represents a significant advancement beyond traditional data protection methods such as k-anonymity and encryption.

Applications:    

• Defense and Military: Facilitating secure sharing of data related to new technologies, while maintaining the confidentiality of critical information.
• Healthcare: Enabling the sharing of patient data for research purposes, while ensuring the full protection of personal information.
• Energy Sector: Facilitating the exchange of data on energy generation and storage innovations, while safeguarding proprietary processes.
• AI and Machine Learning Research: Providing benchmark datasets for the development and testing of AI algorithms, without any concerns regarding the origin of the data.

Development Status: 

Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 1: Basic principles observed and reported.

IP Status:        

Provisional Patent Filing No. 63/515,835, “Systems and Methods for Objective Management,” BEA Docket No. BA-1494.

INL Tech Partnerships: Your Gateway to Innovation

INL offers strategic access to proprietary technology, enhancing small business growth and contributing to economic and public advancement. We cater licensing terms to each business we work with, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements. Engage with our diverse technology offerings to propel your company forward.

Learn more about our licensing opportunities and the support we provide at https://inl.gov/technology-deployment/. For specific discussions on how your business can benefit, please contact Andrew Rankin at td@inl.gov.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services to assist in the development of this technology.

Open Source Software: Structured Threat Intelligence Graph: Revolutionizing Cybersecurity Data Management

In an era where cybersecurity threats evolve rapidly, the need for sophisticated tools to visualize, manage, and counter these threats has never been more critical. Structured Threat Intelligence Graph (STIG) emerges as a groundbreaking software solution, setting a new standard in threat intelligence management by leveraging the capabilities of STIX data through an innovative graphical interface.

The cyber threat landscape is constantly changing, presenting challenges in tracking, analyzing, and mitigating threats efficiently. Traditional text-based threat intelligence platforms often struggle to provide the clarity and context needed for effective decision-making. This gap led to the development of STIG, a solution designed to transcend these limitations by offering a comprehensive, graphical approach to threat intelligence.

STIG is a unique software solution that simplifies the creation, management, querying, and visualization of Structured Threat Information eXpression (STIX) data. It stands out as the first of its kind to provide a graphical user interface (GUI) for interacting with STIX objects. Users can easily import or create STIX objects, save them into a database, and manage and query this database with unparalleled ease. The software's visualization capabilities allow for explicitly depicting complex object graph structures, enhancing understanding and strategic planning.

Advantages:

• Graphical User Interface: Intuitive GUI for seamless interaction with STIX data.
• Comprehensive Management: Simplifies the creation, storage, and handling of STIX objects.
• Advanced Visualization: Visualizes complex threat intelligence data, making it easier to understand and analyze.
• GraphIRL Technology: Utilizes graph theory to enhance Incident Response Language (IRL) development and accuracy.
• Open Source: Facilitates customization and continuous improvement by the community.
• Machine-to-Machine Automated Threat Response: Supports MMATR proofs of concept, advancing automated cybersecurity measures.

Applications:

• Cybersecurity Analysis: For analysts needing to visualize and manage threat data efficiently.
• Incident Response: Enhances IRL development, accuracy, and automated response capabilities.
• Customization and Integration: Ideal for vendors and utility companies looking to tailor cybersecurity solutions.
• Research and Development: Provides a platform for cybersecurity research, especially in automated threat response.

Join the forefront of cybersecurity management by embracing the Structured Threat Intelligence Graph today. Download now to discover how our innovative approach to STIX data can transform your threat intelligence processes.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services to assist in the development of this technology.

The intent is to award multiple Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP), Indefinite-Delivery, Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) contracts for fixed-wing aircraft operated by qualified and proficient personnel and equipped to meet specifications contained herein, each with a two-year base period and and two multi year optios for a total of 9 years. 

This is a reopening of the NLFW MATOC to onboard additional vendors.

Open Source Software: SR2ML: Pioneering Safety and Reliability in Nuclear Plant Management

In an industry where safety and efficiency are paramount, SR2ML (SafetyRiskReliabilityModelLibrary) emerges as a transformative software package designed to interface seamlessly with the RAVEN code developed by INL. This powerful toolset enables static and dynamic risk analysis, offering unparalleled insights into system reliability and operational guidelines to enhance the long-term viability of the U.S. reactor fleet.

As the nuclear power sector strives to remain competitive, reducing Operation and Maintenance (O&M) costs while ensuring safety and reliability has become a critical challenge. Traditional approaches to balance these aspects over decades of operation have laid the groundwork for innovative solutions. SR2ML represents a leap forward, combining classical and cutting-edge models to address these challenges head-on, facilitating a new era of optimized plant management.

SR2ML provides a comprehensive suite of safety and reliability analysis models, including classical reliability models like Fault-Trees and Markov and advanced components aging models. These models are designed for integration into the RAVEN ensemble for dynamic system reliability analysis and can interface with system analysis codes for detailed failure and accident progression evaluations. Through machine learning and quantitative methods, SR2ML empowers operators with dynamic behavior emulation and decision-making tools, driving down O&M costs while enhancing plant safety and efficiency.

Advantages

• Optimized Plant Operations: Enables data-driven decision-making for preventive maintenance and component refurbishment, minimizing O&M costs.
• Advanced Risk Analysis: Integrates classical and innovative models for comprehensive safety and economic risk assessments.
• Dynamic System Modeling: Offers deterministic and stochastic models to predict system and component behavior accurately.
• Cost-Effective Maintenance Strategies: Identifies optimal operational guidelines to balance reliability, safety, and cost-efficiency.
• Seamless Integration: Designed to work with RAVEN and LOGOS for a unified analysis platform, enhancing decision-making processes.

Applications

• Nuclear Plant Management: Streamlining O&M strategies to enhance reliability and safety while reducing costs.
• Risk Assessment: Conducting detailed risk analysis to inform strategic decision-making regarding plant operations.
• System Reliability Analysis: Employing dynamic analysis to predict and mitigate potential system failures.
• Economic Optimization: Integrating economic models to prioritize actions that maximize plant availability and profitability.

Discover how SR2ML can transform your nuclear plant operations. Download now and learn how integrating SR2ML into your management strategy can lead to safer, more efficient, cost-effective plant operations.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services to assist in the development of this technology.

Generative Adversarial Networks for EM Signature Generation

A novel method to synthetically generate electromagnetic (EM) signatures from assembly instructions using Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), enhancing software security analysis.

The Challenge:

In an era where digital security is paramount, the meticulous process of firmware and software verification plays a critical role, especially in mission-critical systems. Traditionally, this involves side-channel analysis—an expert-driven, labor-intensive method that relies on capturing analog signals to detect vulnerabilities or unauthorized changes in software. This method, while effective, often becomes a bottleneck due to its complexity and the high degree of manual effort required, leading to high costs and extended timelines.

How it Works:

This technology introduces a groundbreaking approach to generating EM signatures directly from code, leveraging the power of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs). Traditionally, capturing EM signals for side-channel analysis is labor-intensive and error-prone, requiring precise manual efforts. By automating this process, our method not only simplifies but also accelerates the detection of vulnerabilities in software, especially in embedded devices. It promises a significant reduction in the cost and complexity of side-channel analysis, potentially revolutionizing how software security is verified before deployment.

Key Advantages:

• Automates the generation of EM signatures, eliminating manual capturing errors.
• Facilitates rapid and reliable anomaly detection in software at the firmware and software level.
• Reduces the overall cost and time required for side-channel analysis.
• Enables offline verification of software for side-channel vulnerabilities.
• Improves the robustness of security analysis against environmental and equipment variability.

Problems Solved

• Time-consuming and error-prone manual capturing of EM signals for side-channel analysis.
• Limited applicability of traditional side-channel analysis methods due to their dependency on physical signal capturing.
• High cost and complexity of ensuring software security in embedded and mission-critical systems.
• Difficulty in detecting firmware and software-level modifications through conventional methods.

Market Applications

• Software Security Verification: Ideal for companies and organizations looking to secure their software against side-channel attacks before deployment.
  • Automatically generate EM signatures for comprehensive pre-deployment security checks, safeguarding software from compromised confidentiality and integrity.
• Vulnerability Identification in Embedded Devices: Perfect for industries deploying embedded systems in mission-critical environments.
  • Use synthetic EM signals to identify and rectify vulnerabilities in embedded devices, ensuring robust defense against potential security breaches.
• Education and Research in Cybersecurity: An invaluable tool for academic institutions and research centers focusing on advanced cybersecurity solutions.
  • Enhance the learning and development of cutting-edge security solutions with hands-on applications of synthetic signal generation technology.

Development Status: TRL 3

US Provisional Patent Application No. 63/570,790, “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SYNTHETIC SIDE-CHANNEL ANALYSIS,” BEA Docket No. BA-1500

INL Tech Partnerships: Your Gateway to Innovation

INL offers strategic access to proprietary technology, enhancing small business growth and contributing to economic and public advancement. We cater licensing terms to each business we work with, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements. Engage with our diverse technology offerings to propel your company forward.

Learn more about our licensing opportunities and the support we provide at https://inl.gov/technology-deployment/. For specific discussions on how your business can benefit, please contact td@inl.gov.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services to assist in the development of this technology.

The intent of this solicitation and any resultant contract is to obtain Call When Needed fixed-wing aircraft operated
by qualified and proficient personnel and equipped to meet specifications contained herein. Exclusive Use (EU)
aircraft will be selected using Task Order Request for Proposal (TORP) process (C-23). Aircraft and contract
personnel will be used for the administration and protection of public lands. Relief personnel may be required to
provide daily (7-days per week) coverage during the period of performance/mandatory availability period as
specified in the task order.
The aircraft furnished may be used for special use missions supporting fire, project, resource, law enforcement, and
point-to-point administrative flights. If the Contractor agrees to perform law enforcement flights, such agreement
shall be in writing.
The government has interagency and cooperative agreements with federal and state agencies and private
landholders. Aircraft under contract may be dispatched under these agreements for such use

Preproposal  MSTeams meeting on 6 Nov 10:00am MT. Email matthew.morris@usda.gov for invite 

INL Innovation Spotlight

H2 CURE: Transforming Carbon Emissions into Clean Hydrogen Energy

H2 CURE converts CO2 into hydrogen, providing a net-negative emission solution by transforming pollutants into clean thermal energy, addressing the need for sustainable industrial processes.

Overview:        

The quest for sustainable energy solutions has led to the development of H2 CURE, a pivotal technology designed to combat the escalating global CO2 emissions, estimated at over 31 gigatons annually. This innovative approach provides a clean source of thermal energy and addresses the critical gap in emission mitigation strategies by consuming CO2 emissions directly. Its introduction is timely as the global energy landscape shifts towards more sustainable, clean energy solutions to meet the demands of growing economies while striving for net-zero emissions. Targeting industries with significant CO2 outputs, H2 CURE offers a dual advantage by serving both hydrogen production and carbon capture and utilization sectors (CCUS), presenting a lucrative opportunity for entities aiming to achieve or contribute to net-zero emissions.

Description:   

H2 CURE stands out by utilizing water and captured CO2 in a metal or metal oxide presence to produce hydrogen and a carbonate salt byproduct. This process yields hydrogen for thermal energy applications and achieves net-negative emissions by consuming more CO2 than it emits. Unlike other carbon capture technologies, H2 CURE’s carbonate salt byproduct offers additional commercial value or can be disposed of safely, ensuring permanent CO2 removal from the atmosphere.

Benefits:          

• Net-Negative Emissions: For every kilogram of hydrogen produced, 22 kilograms of CO2 are consumed, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Commercially Viable Byproduct: The carbonate salt byproduct can be sold, adding an economic incentive to the environmental benefits.
• Versatility and Scalability: Applicable across scales, from minor to extensive industrial processes, without significant energy inputs for the reaction.
• No Need for Hydrogen Storage: Direct use of hydrogen in thermal systems eliminates the challenges associated with hydrogen storage.
• Sustainable and Safe: Locks CO2 in a mineral form, avoiding the risks associated with other sequestration methods.

Applications:    

• Government and private sectors aiming for net-zero emissions.
• Industries with high CO2 emissions are looking for sustainable energy solutions.
• Hydrogen production for industrial processes, particularly where clean thermal energy is required.

Development Status: 

TRL 1 - Basic principles observed. Further experimental and market analysis is required before moving to bench-scale demonstrations.

IP Status:        

Provisional Patent Application No. 63/627,713, “Methods for Producing Hydrogen Gas and Thermal Energy, and Related Systems,” BEA Docket No. BA-1452.

INL Tech Partnerships: Your Gateway to Innovation

INL offers strategic access to proprietary technology, enhancing small business growth and contributing to economic and public advancement. We cater licensing terms to each business we work with, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements. Engage with our diverse technology offerings to propel your company forward.

Learn more about our licensing opportunities and the support we provide at https://inl.gov/technology-deployment/. For specific discussions on how your business can benefit, please contact Andrew Rankin at td@inl.gov.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services to assist in the development of this technology.

Purchase and install fire command package build for the three (3) vehicles the schedule of items.  The Contractor shall provide and install after-market components, accessories, and vehicle decals on the Government-Furnished vehicles as outlined in the attachments. See attachment 1284LL250004 for further details.

TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY

Enhanced Stability for Li Metal Batteries with Molybdenum Decorated Collectors

Enhancing Stability and Performance of Lithium-Metal Batteries for High-Energy Density Transportation.

Overview:        Anode-free rechargeable lithium (Li) batteries are highly effective energy storage systems due to their significantly increased energy density and reduced cost. These batteries can be more easily manufactured than other Li-ion battery architectures because of the absence of an active (reactive) anode material. However, significant challenges, including Li dendrite growth and low coulombic efficiency, have prevented their practical implementation. Still, Li metal is widely viewed as the most promising anode material for high-energy Li-ion batteries due to its high specific capacity and low electrochemical potential.

Description:    Researchers at Idaho National Lab have developed an anode-free rechargeable lithium battery with a molybdenum (Mo) based current collector at the anode side. This system shows improved cycling performance due to uniform Li nucleation during plating compared with traditional Cu collectors. Molybdenum nanoparticles embedded in the surface of the current collector will induce uniform Li plating/stripping morphologies with reduced overpotential, suppressing dendrite growth and dead Li formation.

Benefits:          

• Significantly increased energy density
• Improved cycling performance compared to other Li metal batteries
• Scalable process uses commercially available sputtering technology

Applications:    

• Lithium-metal batteries

Development Status:  TRL 2, technology is in need of proof-of-concept work[RMB1] .     

IP Status:         Patent Application No. 17/819,993, “Current Collectors with a Group 6 Metal Thereon and Related Electrochemical Cells and Methods,” BEA Docket No. BA-1265.

Partner with Idaho National Laboratory (INL) for Access to Pioneering Technology and Mutual Growth

Managed by Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC, INL offers unique opportunities for businesses to access and license advanced technology. Our agreements are tailored to provide flexibility and affordability, particularly supporting small businesses in their growth and innovation endeavors. By licensing our intellectual property, you not only gain access to groundbreaking technology but also contribute to economic development and public welfare. We invite you to explore our technology portfolio, designed to give your organization a competitive edge in the market. Learn more about our licensing opportunities and the support we provide at: https://inl.gov/inl-initiatives/technology-deployment. For specific discussions on how your business can benefit, please contact Andrew Rankin at td@inl.gov.

INL’s Technology Deployment department focuses exclusively on licensing intellectual property and partnering with industry collaborators capable of commercializing our innovations. Our goal is to commercialize the technologies developed by INL researchers. We do not engage in purchasing, manufacturing, procurement decisions, or providing funding. Additionally, this is not a call for external services to assist in the development of this technology.

Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems (2nd
Generation) (MAFFS II) Sustainability,
Maintenance, and Coordination Services
Delivery: 04/30/2026
Period of Performance: 05/01/2025 to 04/30/2030

The Department of Agriculture, U. S. Forest Service, Washington Office, has a requirement to provide professional mechanic services . Work includes (but is not limited to) inspection, maintenance, repair, inventory management, engineering support, training, and coordination activities to ensure operational readiness for eight (8) Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems,
second generation (MAFFS II), and associated ground equipment during the wildland fire season and throughout the year. The contractor shall provide all personnel, tools, parts, transportation, supplies, equipment, travel, supervision, management (unless otherwise specified), operational sustainment, maintenance, training, and coordination activities for the MAFFS II program in support of national wildland fire suppression efforts when primary air resources are exhausted. The MAFFS II program shall respond 100% of the time, if activated, with everything necessary to perform the work in accordance with the solicitation.
Pursuant to Federal Acquisition Regulation’s Parts 12 and 13. Quotes shall be due on or before the date stated on the
SF-1449. The Forest Service is issuing the RFQ as a total small business set-aside. The resulting contract will be a firm-fixed priced (FFP), indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract. Anticipated periods of performance are a twelve (12)-month base period and four (4), twelve (12)-month option periods to be exercised at the Forest Service’s discretion. The anticipated period of performance start date, for the base year, is 1 May 2025 through 30 April 2026.  The Forest Service will consider all responsible contractors who submit a timely quote that conforms to the upcoming solicitation. Interested parties shall submit quotes through e-mail to the Contracting Officer, Rita "KAY" Brundage, at Rita.brundage@usda.gov. Any contractor interested in doing business with the Federal Government shall be registered and active in the SAM.gov database prior to award of a contract. SAM.gov is a Federal
Government owned and operated website which is FREE of charge and is located at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/
All invoices for this procurement shall be submitted through the Department of Treasury’s Internet Payment Platform (IPP). IPP is a Federal Government owned and operated website which is FREE of charge and is located at www.IPP.gov.
Interested contractors are responsible for monitoring SAM.gov for solicitation release and any subsequent postings.
For further information about the requirement, please contact Kay Brundage at rita.brundage@usda.gov.

Provide all labor, materials, and equipment necessary to acquire crane rental with operator services as well as a mats & dunnage rental to move and secure the spillway gate undergoing Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) repair for the Albeni Falls Dam (AFD) operating project.

PROJECT: ID BOR SRAO 0017(1), Sportsman’s Park Transportation Improvements

LOCATION:  3 miles East of Aberdeen in Bingham County, Idaho

WORK: This project consists of FDR, paving, striping, and minor drainage.  See “Project Description” posted under Attachments for additional details

LENGTH: 1.5 miles

TENTATIVE COMPLETION DATE:  Summer 2025

CONTRACT TYPE: Sealed Bid, Firm-Fixed-Price

ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE: Between $700,000 and $2,000,000. 

THIS SOLICITATION IS OFFERED AS A SMALL BUSINESS SET-ASIDE.

This project is anticipated to be solicited early 2025.                      

This project will include two bid schedules. Only one schedule will be awarded.

INTERESTED VENDORS LIST: To view the Interested Vendors List, you must register as a SAM user, be logged in, and linked to an entity. If you are signed into SAM.gov with your registered entity and you cannot see the Interested Vendors List, you will need to be assigned the Contract Opportunities Administrator role for your entity in SAM.gov. If you need assistance, call the Federal Service Desk at 866-606-8220.

PRELIMINARY PLANS and a letter with additional project information are in electronic format only and are posted with this synopsis. To ensure you receive notification when the solicitation documents are posted to SAM.gov, please click on the “follow” button at the top of the opportunity page.  When solicitation documents are issued, the INVITATION FOR BIDS (specifications and plans) will be posted at this link.