The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST), Magnetic Technology Division of Boulder, Colorado 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 axial and transverse stress on the critical current of high-Tc and low-Tc superconductors. The goal is to determine the stress sensitivity of new experimental coated conductors as well as to obtain data for the characterization of high-field Nb3Sn superconductors for high-energy-physics-accelerator magnets. Another major project will be to attempt to obtain data for a definitive test of the deviatoric strain model. The measurements are to be performed at NIST using cryostats specifically designed to handle the brittle oxide superconductors. The staff at the University of Colorado has a combination of skills and past experience in cryogenic probe design, handling of cryogenic fluids, and operating stable higher current supplies. The staff also has knowledge of the Strain Scaling Law, deviatoric strain model, and superconductor pinning mechanism. Specific work tasks will include optimization and design of apparatus for measuring the effect of axial strain and transverse stress on the critical-current of brittle superconducting materials. Apparatus must also be designed or obtained for the measurement of stress-strain characteristics of small cross-sectional-area coated-conductor substrates at temperatures up to 800 degrees Celsius. Analysis of the data in terms of the Strain Scaling Law and deviatoric strain models will be performed. The contract period is July 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003. 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.. 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 and agency level protest procedures can be found on web site http://oamweb.osec.doc.gov/CONOPS/#REFERENCE. Hard copy in full text available from office address and phone number listed in notice. Anticipated award date April 30, 2003.

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