Under the authority of FAR 6.302-1 and 6.302-3, the U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering (RDEC) Acquisition Center, Natick Contracting Division (NCD) Kansas Street, Natick, MA on behalf of the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research Development and Engineering Center, Natick, MA intends to negotiate and award a contract on a sole source basis with Imerys Marietta Research Facility 1190 Atlanta Industrial Drive, Marietta, GA 30066 for the purpose of processing, compounding and characterizing formulations containing kaolin as an additive to improve barrier properties. IMERYS provides high quality kaolin with unique properties for barrier films. The proposed contractor, IMERYS, is the only source available to provide these services. They have a unique product and proprietary technology that will enable them to successfully perform these services. Their scientists have extensive background in manufacturing, processing, developing and testing this material. background and research experience in the area of of clay materials. The Imerys engineers also have extensive knowledge and experience regarding the dispersion of nanoparticles in EVOH resin, as a means to improve critical film properties such as gas barrier and mechanical properties, which is a key objective in this research effort. Any firm that believes it can meet this requirement may give written notification to the Contracting Officer within 5 days from the date of publication of this announcement. Supporting evidence must be in sufficient detail to demonstrate the ability to comply with the requirements, yet must be limited to 2 pages. Responses received will be evaluated; however, a determination by the Government to compete the proposed procurement based on the responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. If no responses are received, NCD will proceed with awarding a firm fixed price purchase order to University of Florida. Nothing herein should be misconstrued as a request for proposal. No solicitation document is available. Any Questions concerning this acquisition may be addressed to the above address, Attention: Mr. Huy Le or by email to: [email protected]. This synopsis expires April 30th, 2008 at 12:00pm Local Time.

Bid Protests Not Available