NASA/MSFC has a requirement for a rotating viscometer/rheometer is required for viscosity measurements and rheological analysis of molten lunar and Martian regolith soil stimulant. Viscosity measurements are needed to understand the fiber pulling and glass working temperature ranges for these in-situ materials and to make ISFAR products. Products produced from in-situ regolith is very important for the exploration initiative. A commercial rheometer will be adapted with extensions for measurements in a furnace. Specifications required: 1. Programmable Rheometer (LVDV-III Ultra or equivalent) For complete rheological analysis and measurement of liquids, non-Newtonian liquids, and semi-solids material’s rheological structure including: viscosity, yield stress and liquid flow behavior including thixotropy, dilatancy, pseudoplastic, and Bingham plastic behavior. Ability to measure the stress response at constant rate as well as viscosity changes at changing shear rate. Desired viscosity measurement range possible: 15 to 6,000,000 cP (mPa-sec) RPM, 0.01 to 250, infinitely variable if possible. Digital display of viscosity, torque, shear rate, shear stress, temperature. Programmable and controllable by a Personal Computer. Including computer interface with computer interface cable(s). Analog voltage output if available. Power - 110V AC 60 Hz with power cord. This notice is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in FAR Subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation, which is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ); quotes are being requested and a written solicitation will not be issued. Offerors are required to use the On-Line RFQ system to submit their quote. The On-line RFQ system is linked above or it may be accessed at http://prod.nais.nasa.gov/cgi-bin/eps/bizops.cgi?gr=C&pin= . The information required by FAR Subpart 12.6 is included in the on-line RFQ. The Government intends to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12 and the Simplified Acquisition Procedures set forth in FAR Part 13. Questions regarding this acquisition must be submitted in writing (e-mail is preferred) no later than 8/22/2005. It is the quoter's responsibility to monitor this site for the release of amendments (if any). Potential quoters will be responsible for downloading their own copy of this notice, the on-line RFQ and amendments (if any). An ombudsman has been appointed - See NASA Specific Note "B". Any referenced notes may be viewed at the following URLs link below.

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