--Proof-of-concept on fundamental scientific understanding of surface characteristics of organically modified clays.

The U.S. Army RDECOM Acquisition Center plans to award a firm-fixed price purchase order using simplified acquisition procedures to Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, for a proof-of-concept study focused on the fundamental scientific understanding of surface characteristics of organically modified clays. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these clays in exfoliation and intercalation within Sorona, a poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT)-based nanocomposite. Michigan State University and its Principal Investigator have specialized expertise and prior experience conducting preliminary experiments on injection-molded nanocomposites involving Sorona, making them uniquely qualified for this work. The government has determined that no other research institution or company can fulfill its requirements. The acquisition is identified by Purchase Request number W91A2K-5326-9050, with the NAICS code 541710 and SIC code 8731. There is no formal solicitation document available, and interested offerors who can meet the government’s needs are invited to demonstrate their capabilities. The contract is managed by the Department of Defense office W6QK Acc-apg Natick, located in Natick, MA. Questions regarding the announcement were to be directed to Ms. Michelle Miller via email or fax no later than January 27, 2006.