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**FY 2008\
Small Business Innovation Research\
PROGRAM SOLICITATION\
**

**U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Institute of Standards and
Technology**

Opening Date: November 8, 2007

Closing Date: January 25, 2008

**NIST -- 08 -- SBIR -- R**

PROGRAM SOLICITATION AVAILABLE IN ELECTRONIC FORM ONLY

GO TO:
[[http://www.nist.gov/sbir]{.underline}](http://www.nist.gov/sbir)

**NOTE:** The NIST SBIR Program is issuing two solicitations in Fiscal
Year 2008. This **SBIR -- Research (SBIR-R)** will include subtopics
describing areas of research to support NIST projects. A solicitation
separate from this, the **SBIR Technology Transfer (SBIR TT)**
solicitation includes subtopics describing research needed to
commercialize technologies already developed by NIST. That separate SBIR
TT solicitation may be found at the website www.nist.gov/sbir.

**TABLE OF CONTENTS\
**

**1.0 [PROGRAM DESCRIPTION](#book1_0)\
**

**1.01** [**Introduction**](#book1_01) **\
**

**1.02 [Three-Phase Program](#book1_02)\
**

**1.03 [Manufacturing-related Priority](#book1_03)\
**

**1.04 [Eligibility](#book1_04)\
**

**1.05 [Contact with NIST](#book1_05)\
**

**2.0 [DEFINITIONS](#book2_0)\
**

**2.01 [Commercialization](#book2_01)\
**

**2.02 [Essentially Equivalent Work](#book2_02)\
**

**2.03 [Feasibility](#book2_03)\
**

**2.04 [Funding Agreement](#book2_04)\
**

**2.05 [HUB ZONE Small Business Concern](#book2_05)\
**

**2.06 [Joint Venture](#book2_06)\
**

**2.07 [Primary Employment](#book2_07)**

**2.08 [Research or Research and Development](#book2_08)\
**

**2.09 [SBIR Technical Data](#book2_09)\
**

**2.10 [SBIR Technical Data Rights](#book2_10)\
**

**2.11 [Small Business Concern (SBC)](#book2_11)\
**

**2.12 [Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Small Business
Concern](#book2_12)\
**

**2.13 [Subcontract](#book2_13)\
**

**2.14 [Women-Owned Small Business](#book2_14)\
**

**3.0 [PROPOSAL PREPARATION GUIDELINES](#book3_0)\
**

**3.01 [Proposal Requirements](#book3_01)\
**

**3.02 [Phase 1 Proposal Limitations](#book3_02)\
**

> **3.03 [Instructions for Phase 1 Proposal Submission Forms and
> Technical Content](#book3_03)\
> **

**4.0 [METHOD OF SELECTION AND EVALUATION CRITERIA](#book4_0)\
**

**4.01 [Introduction](#book4_01)\
**

**4.02 [Phase 1 Screening Criteria](#book4_02)\
**

**4.03 [Phase 1 Evaluation Criteria](#book4_03)\
**

**4.04 [Phase 2 Evaluation Criteria](#book4_04)\
**

**4.05 [Release of Proposal Review Information](#book4_05)\
**

**5.0 [CONSIDERATIONS](#book5_0)\
**

**5.01 [Awards](#book5_01)\
**

**5.02 [Reports](#book5_02)\
**

**5.03 [Deliverables](#book5_03)\
**

**5.04 [Payment Schedule](#book5_04)\
**

**5.05 [Proprietary Information, Inventions, and Patents](#book5_05)\
**

**5.06 [Additional Information](#book5_06)\
**

> **5.07 [Research Projects with Human Subjects, Human Tissue, Data or
> Recordings Involving Human Subjects](#book5_07)\
> **

**5.08 [Research Projects Involving Vertebrate Animals](#book5_08)\
**

**6.0 [SUBMISSION OF PROPOSALS](#book6_0)\
**

**6.01 [Deadline for Proposals](#book6_01)\
**

**6.02 [Proposal Submission](#book6_02)\
**

**7.0 [SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION SOURCES](#book7_0)\
**

**8.0 [SUBMISSION FORMS](#book8_0)\
**

**8.01 [Cover Sheet](#book8_01)\
**

**8.02 [Project Summary](#book8_02)\
**

**8.03 [Proposed Budget](#book8_03)\
**

**8.04 [Checklist of Requirements](#book8_04)\
**

**9.0 [RESEARCH TOPIC AREAS](#book9_0)\
**

**9.01 [Analytical Methods](#book9_01)\
**

**9.02 [Homeland Security](#book9_02)\
**

**9.03 [Information Technology](#book9_03)\
**

> **9.04 [Manufacturing System Integration](#book9_04)\
> \
> 9.05 [Microelectronics Manufacturing](#book9_05)\
> **

**9.06** [**Micro- and Nano-fabrication Micromachining**](#book9_06)

**9.07 [Optics and Optical Technology](#book9_07)\
**

**9.08 [Technologies to Enhance Fire Safety](#book9_08)\
**

**9.09 [X-ray System Technologies](#book9_09)\
**

**US DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND
TECHNOLOGY**

**SOLICITATION FOR SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION RESEARCH (SBIR) PROGRAM**

[]{#book1_0 .anchor}**1.0 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION**

[]{#book1_01 .anchor}**1.01 Introduction**

The Department of Commerce (DOC) National Institute of Standards and
Technology (NIST) invites small businesses to submit research proposals
under this solicitation. Firms with strong research capabilities in any
of the areas listed in Section 9 of this solicitation are encouraged to
participate. **Unsolicited proposals are not accepted under the SBIR
program**.

Objectives of this program include stimulating technological innovation
in the private sector and strengthening the role of small business in
meeting Federal research and development (R&D) needs.

[]{#book1_02 .anchor}**1.02 Three-Phase Program**

The \"Small Business Research and Development Enhancement Act of 1992\",
as amended, requires the Department of Commerce to establish a
three-phase SBIR program by reserving a percentage of its extramural R&D
budget to be awarded to small business concerns for innovation research.

This solicitation document requests Phase 1 proposals ONLY.

NIST has the unilateral right to select SBIR research topics and
awardees in both Phase 1 and Phase 2. As funding is limited, NIST
reserves the right to select and fund only those proposals deemed to be
superior in overall technical quality and highly relevant to the NIST
mission. As a result, NIST may fund more than one proposal in a specific
topic area. Similarly, NIST may decide not to fund any proposals in a
given topic area.

**1.02.01 Phase 1 - Feasibility Research**

The purpose of Phase 1 is for NIST to determine the technical
feasibility of the research the awardee proposes and the quality of the
awardee's performance. Therefore, the proposal should concentrate on
describing research that will significantly contribute to proving the
feasibility of the proposed research. Feasibility is a prerequisite to
further support in Phase 2.

**1.02.02 Phase 2 - Research and Development**

Only firms that receive Phase 1 awards will be given the opportunity of
submitting a Phase 2 proposal following completion of Phase 1.
Instructions for Phase 2 proposal preparation and submission will be
provided to Phase 1 awardees typically during the fourth month of the
Phase 1 period of performance.

Phase 2 is the R&D or prototype development phase. It will require a
comprehensive proposal outlining the research in detail. Further
information regarding Phase 2 proposal requirements will be provided to
all firms receiving Phase 1 awards.

**1.02.03 Phase 3 - Commercialization**

In Phase 3, it is intended that non-SBIR capital be used by the small
business to pursue commercial applications of Phase 2.

[]{#book1_03 .anchor}**1.03 Manufacturing-related Priority**

Executive Order (EO)
[13329](http://www.nist.gov/cgi-bin/exit_nist.cgi?url=http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/14mar20010800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2004/pdf/04-4436.pdf)
"Encouraging Innovation in Manufacturing" requires SBIR agencies, to the
extent permitted by law and in a manner consistent with the mission of
that department or agency, to give high priority within the SBIR
programs to manufacturing-related research and development (R&D).
"Manufacturing-related" is defined as "relating to manufacturing
processes, equipment and systems; or manufacturing workforce skills and
protection." More information on the national manufacturing initiative
may be found through links located on the NIST SBIR website
[**http://www.nist.gov/sbir**](http://www.nist.gov/sbir).

The NIST SBIR Program solicits manufacturing-related projects through
many of the subtopics described in this Solicitation. Further NIST
encourages innovation in manufacturing by giving high priority, where
feasible, to projects that can help the manufacturing sector through
technological innovation in a manner consistent with NIST's mission.

[]{#book1_04 .anchor}**1.04 Eligibility**

Each organization submitting a proposal for both Phase 1 and Phase 2
**must** qualify as a small business concern (Section 2.11) for research
or R&D purposes (Section 2.8) at the time of award. In addition, the
primary employment of the principal investigator must be with the small
business at the time of the award and during the conduct of the proposed
research. More than one-half of the principal investigator\'s time must
be spent with the small business for the period covered by the award.
**Primary employment with a small business precludes full-time
employment with another organization.**

Also, for both Phase 1 and Phase 2, the work must be performed in the
United States. \"United States\" means the fifty states, the territories
and possessions of the United States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico,
the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Trust Territory of
the Pacific Islands, and the District of Columbia. However, based on a
rare and unique circumstance, for example, a supply or material or other
item or project requirement that is not available in the United States,
agencies may allow that particular portion of the R/R&D work to be
performed or obtained in a country outside of the United States.
Approval by the funding agreement officer after consultation with the
agency SBIR Program Manager/Coordinator for each such specific condition
must be in writing.

Joint ventures and limited partnerships are eligible, provided the
entity created qualifies as a small business as defined in this
solicitation. **The small business awardee may enter into subcontracts
with universities or other non-profit organizations, with the awardee
serving as the prime contractor.**

For Phase 1, a minimum of two-thirds of the research and/or analytical
effort must be performed by the awardee. For Phase 2, a minimum of
one-half of the research and/or analytical effort must be performed by
the awardee.

**Unsolicited proposals or proposals not responding to topics or
subtopics listed herein are not eligible for SBIR awards. Only proposals
that are directly responsive to the subtopics as described in section 9
will be considered.**

Phase 2 proposals may be submitted only by Phase 1 awardees.
Instructions for phase 2 proposal submission are provided to phase 1
awardees during the phase 1 period of performance.

[]{#book1_05 .anchor}**1.05 Contact with NIST**

In the interest of competitive fairness, all oral or written
communication with NIST concerning a specific technical topic or
subtopic during the open solicitation period is strictly prohibited -
with the exception of the public discussion group located at
[**http://www.nist.gov/sbir**](http://www.nist.gov/sbir). Discussion
group questions will be routed to the appropriate person for a response.
All questions and responses will be publicly, though anonymously, posted
on the discussion group web site.

Potential awardees may not participate in the selection of any topic or
subtopic nor in the review of proposals. All offerors, including Guest
Researchers, contractors, Cooperative research and Development Agreement
(CRADA) partners and others working with NIST may only submit a proposal
if they:

> Had no role in suggesting, developing, or reviewing the subtopic; and
> have not been the recipient of any information on the subtopic not
> available in the solicitation or other public means; and
>
> Have not received any assistance from DOC in preparing the proposal
> (including any \'informal\' reviews) prior to submission.
>
> An Agency may not enter into, or continue an existing CRADA with an
>
> awardee on the subtopic of the award.

**Requests for general information on the NIST SBIR program may be
addressed to:**

> SBIR Program
>
> 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 2200
>
> Gaithersburg, MD 20899-2200
>
> Telephone: (301) 975-3085, Fax: (301) 975-3482
>
> email: [**sbir@nist.gov**](mailto:sbir@nist.gov)

**For information on contractual issues contact:**

> Myrsonia Lutz
>
> Acquisitions and Management Division
>
> Telephone: (301) 975-8329. Fax: (301) 975-6273
>
> Email: [**myrsonia.lutz@nist.gov**](mailto:myrsonia.lutz@nist.gov)
>
> Or

Mario Checchia

Acquisition and Management Division

> Telephone: (301) 975-8407

Email: [**mario.checchia@nist.gov**](mailto:mario.checchia@nist.gov)

[]{#book2_0 .anchor}**2.0 DEFINITIONS**

[]{#book2_01 .anchor}**2.01 Commercialization**

The process of developing marketable products or services and producing
and delivering products or services for sale (whether by the originating
party or by others) to the Government or commercial markets.

[]{#book2_02 .anchor}**2.02 Essentially Equivalent Work**

This occurs when (1) substantially the same research is proposed for
funding in more than one contract proposal or grant application
submitted to the same Federal agency;

\(2\) substantially the same research is submitted to two or more
different Federal agencies for review and funding consideration; or (3)
a specific research objective and the research design for accomplishing
an objective are the same or closely related in two or more proposals or
awards, regardless of the funding source.

[]{#book2_03 .anchor}**2.03 Feasibility**

The practical extent to which a project can be performed successfully.

[]{#book2_04 .anchor}**2.04 Funding Agreement**

Any contract, grant, or cooperative agreement entered into between any
Federal agency and any small business concern (SBC) for the performance
of experimental, developmental, or research work, including products or
services, funded in whole or in part by the Federal Government. **For
purposes of this Solicitation, NIST intends to award purchase orders
and/or contracts under the authority of the Federal Acquisition
Regulation.**

[]{#book2_05 .anchor}**2.05 Historically Underutilized Business Zone
(HUBZone) Small Business Concern**

An SBC meeting the following criteria:

1\. Located in a \"historically underutilized business zone\" or HUBZone
area located in one or more of the following: a) A qualified census
tract (as defined in section 42(d)(5)(C)(i)(l) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986; b) A qualified \"non-metropolitan county\" (as defined in
section 143(k)(2)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) with a median
household income of less than 80 percent of the State median household
income or with an unemployment rate of not less than 140 percent of the
Statewide average, based on US Department of Labor recent data; or, c)
Lands within the boundaries of federally recognized Indian reservations.

2\. Owned and controlled by one or more US Citizens; and;

3\. At least 35% of its employees must reside in a HUBZone.

[]{#book2_06 .anchor}**2.06 Joint Venture**

An association of persons or concerns with interests in any degree or
proportion by way of contract, express or implied, consorting to engage
in and carry out a single specific business venture for joint profit,
for which purpose they combine their efforts, property, money, skill, or
knowledge, but not on a continuing or permanent basis for conducting
business generally. A joint venture is viewed as a business entity in
determining power to control its management and is eligible under the
SBIR and STTR Programs provided that the entity created qualifies as a
\"small business concern\" as defined in herein.

[]{#book2_07 .anchor}**2.07 Primary Employment**

Primary employment means that more than one half of the principal
investigator\'s time is spent in the employ of the small business
concern. This requirement extends also to "leased" employees serving as
the principal investigator. Primary employment with a small business
concern precludes full time employment at another organization.

[]{#book2_08 .anchor}**2.08 Research or Research and Development**

Any activity that is (a) a systematic, intensive study directed toward
greater knowledge or understanding of the subject studied; (b) a
systematic study directed specifically toward applying new knowledge to
meet a recognized need; or (c) a systematic application of knowledge
toward the production of useful materials, devices, services, or
methods, and includes design, development, and improvement of prototypes
and new processes to meet specific requirements.

In general, the NIST SBIR program will fund Phase 1 and 2 proposals with
objectives that can be defined by (b) and (c) above.

[]{#book2_09 .anchor}**2.09 SBIR Technical Data**

All data generated during the performance of an SBIR award.

[]{#book2_10 .anchor}**2.10 SBIR Technical Data Rights**

The rights at SBC obtains in data generated during the performance of
any SBIR Phase 1, Phase 2, or Phase 3 award that an awardee delivers to
the Government during or upon completion of a Federally-funded project,
and to which the Government receives a license.

[]{#book2_11 .anchor}**2.11 Small Business Concern (SBC)**

A small business concern is one that, at the time of award of Phase 1
and Phase 2, meets all of the following criteria:

1\. Organized for profit, with a place of business located in the United
States, which operates primarily within the United States or which makes
a significant contribution to the United States economy through payment
of taxes or use of American products, materials or labor;\
 \
2. In the legal form of an individual proprietorship, partnership,
limited liability company, corporation, joint venture, association,
trust or cooperative, except that where the form is a joint venture,
there can be no more than 49 percent participation by business entities
in the joint venture;\
 \
3. At least 51 percent owned and controlled by one or more individuals
who are citizens of, or permanent resident aliens in, the United States,
or it must be a for-profit business concern that is at least 51% owned
and controlled by another for-profit business concern that is at least
51% owned and controlled by one or more individuals who are citizens of,
or permanent resident aliens in, the United States \-- (except in the
case of a joint venture);\
 \
And\
 \
4. Has, including its affiliates, not more than 500 employees.

Control can be exercised through common ownership, common management,
and contractual relationships. The term \"affiliates\" is defined in
greater detail in 13 CFR 121.103. The term \"number of employees\" is
defined in 13 CFR 121.106.

A business concern may be in the form of an individual proprietorship,
partnership, limited liability company, corporation, joint venture,
association, trust, or cooperative. Further information may be obtained
at [**[http://sba.gov/size]{.underline}**,](http://sba.gov/size) or by
contacting the Small Business Administration's Government Contracting
Area Office or Office of Size Standards.

[]{#book2_12 .anchor}**2.12 Socially and Economically Disadvantaged
Small Business Concern**

A socially and economically disadvantaged small business concern is one
that is at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more socially and
economically disadvantaged individuals, or an Indian tribe, including
Alaska Native Corporations (ANCs), a Native Hawaiian Organization (NHO),
or a Community Development Corporation (CDC). Control includes both the
strategic planning (as that exercised by boards of directors) and the
day-to-day management and administration of business operations. See 13
CFR 124.109, 124.110, and 124.111 for special rules pertaining to
concerns owned by Indian tribes (including ANCs), NHOs or CDCs,
respectively.

[]{#book2_13 .anchor}**2.13 Subcontract**

This is any agreement, other than one involving an employer-employee
relationship, entered into under a Federal Government funding agreement,
calling for supplies or services required solely for the performance of
the original funding agreement.

[]{#book2_14 .anchor}**2.14 Women-Owned Small Business**

A small business concern that is at least 51% owned and controlled by a
woman or women. Control includes both the strategic planning (as that
exercised by boards of directors) and the day-to-day management and
administration of business operations.

[]{#book3_0 .anchor}**3.0 PROPOSAL PREPARATION GUIDELINES**

[]{#book3_01 .anchor}**3.01 Proposal Requirements**

NIST reserves the right to not submit to technical review any proposal
which it finds to have insufficient scientific and technical
information, or one which fails to comply with the administrative
procedures as outlined on the Checklist of Requirements in [**Section
8.04**](#book8_04). Proposals that do not successfully pass the
screening criteria given in [**Section 4.02**](#book4_02) will be
returned to the offeror without further consideration.

The offeror must provide sufficient information to demonstrate that the
proposed work represents a sound approach to the investigation of an
important scientific or engineering innovation worthy of support. **The
proposal must meet all the requirements of the subtopic in Section 9 it
addresses**.

A proposal must be self-contained and written with all the care and
thoroughness of a scientific paper submitted for publication. It should
indicate a thorough knowledge of the current status of research in the
subtopic area addressed by the proposal. Each proposal should be checked
carefully by the offeror to ensure inclusion of all essential material
needed for a complete evaluation. The proposal will be peer reviewed as
a scientific paper. All units of measurement should be in the metric
system.

The proposal must not only be responsive to the specific NIST program
interests described in Section 9 of the solicitation, but also serve as
the basis for technological innovation leading to new commercial
products, processes, or services that benefit the public. An offeror may
submit proposals on multiple subtopics or multiple proposals on one
subtopic under this solicitation. When the proposed innovation applies
to more than one subtopic, the offeror must submit its proposal under
the subtopic that is most relevant to the offeror\'s technical concept.

**Proposals principally for the commercialization of proven concepts or
for market research must not be submitted. Such efforts are considered
the responsibility of the private sector.**

The proposal should be direct, concise, and informative. Promotional and
other material not related to the project shall be omitted. The complete
proposal application must contain four copies of the following:

\(a\) Cover Sheet (required form, see [**Section 8.0**](#book8_0))

\(b\) Project Summary (required form, see [**Section 8.0**](#book8_0))

\(c\) Technical Content

\(d\) Proposed Budget (required form, see [**Section 8.0**](#book8_0))

**One original proposal -- this includes original signatures in each of
the three required forms along with the technical section - plus three
copies of the proposal are required.**

[]{#book3_02 .anchor}**3.02 Phase 1 Proposal Limitations**

Page length must be **no more than 25 pages**. Each page is to be
consecutively numbered, including the cover sheet (2 pages count as one
for the cover sheet ONLY), project summary, main text, references,
resumes, any other enclosures or attachments, and the proposal summary
budget. The only exception to the page count limitation are those pages
necessary to comply with the itemization of prior SBIR phase 2 awards,
per [**Section 3.03.03.02**](#book3_030302).

Paper size used for the submission must be 21.6 cm X 27.9 cm (8 ½\" X
11\"). Print size used for the submission must be easy to read with a
fixed pitch font of 12 or fewer characters per inch or proportionally
spaced font of point size 10 or larger with no more than 6 lines per
inch.

Supplementary material, revisions, substitutions, audio or video tapes,
or computer floppy disks will **not** be accepted. If submitted these
items will not be reviewed by evaluators.

**The original and all copies of each proposal must be mailed in one
package.**

**The bottom right corner of the outside of the package must be clearly
marked**

**"SBIR-R/Subtopic #\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_".**

[]{#book3_03 .anchor}**3.03 Instructions for Phase 1 Proposal Submission
Forms and Technical Content**

This section includes Instructions for completing each of the three
required forms as well as the format required for the Technical Content
section. A complete proposal [[**Cover
Sheet**](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/cover_08.pdf),]{.underline}
[**Project
Summary**](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/project_summary_08.pdf)[,]{.underline}
Technical Content (up to 22 pages), and [[**Proposed
Budget**.]{.underline}](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/budget_08.pdf)
Any applications received missing any of these required items will be
returned without review.

**3.03.01** [**[Cover
Sheet]{.underline}**](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/cover_08.pdf)

Complete all items in the "Cover Sheet" required form and use as page 1
of the proposal. **NO OTHER COVER WILL BE ACCEPTED.**

Before NIST can award a contract to a successful offeror under this
solicitation, the offeror must be registered in the DoD Central
Contractor Registration (CCR) database. The CCR allows Federal
Government contractors or firms interested in conducting business with
the federal government to provide basic information on business
capabilities and financial information. To register, visit
[**[http://www.ccr.gov]{.underline}**](http://www.ccr.gov/) or call
1-888-227-2423.

The DUNS number is a nine-digit number assigned by Dun and Bradstreet
Information Services. If the offeror does not have a DUNS number, it
should contact Dun and Bradstreet directly to obtain one. A DUNS number
will be provided immediately by telephone at no charge to the offeror.
For information on obtaining a DUNS number, the offeror, if located
within the United States, should call Dun and Bradstreet at 1-800-333-
0505, or access their website at
[**http://sbs.dnb.com/**](http://sbs.dnb.com/).

**No award shall be made under this solicitation to a small business
concern without registration in CCR or a DUNS number.**

Offerors are cautioned to identify proposal page numbers that contain
their confidential information in the Proprietary Notice section at the
end of the Cover Sheet.

**3.03.02** [[**Project
Summary**]{.underline}](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/project_summary_08.pdf)

Complete all sections of the \"Project Summary\" form as page 2 of your
proposal. The technical abstract should include a brief description of
the problem or opportunity, the innovation, project objectives, and
technical approach. Keywords should be chosen to describe the proposed
work both generally and specifically. In summarizing anticipated
results, include technical implications of the approach and the
potential commercial applications of the research. **Each awardee's
Project Summary will be published by NIST and, therefore, must not
contain proprietary information.**

**3.03.03 Technical Content**

Beginning on **page 3 of the proposal**, include the following items
with headings as shown:

\(a\) **Identification and Significance of the Problem or Opportunity.**
Make a clear statement of the specific research problem or opportunity
addressed, its innovativeness, commercial potential, and why it is
important. Show how it applies to a specific subtopic in Section 9.

\(b\) **Phase 1 Technical Objectives.** State the specific objectives of
the Phase 1 effort, including the technical questions it will try to
answer, to determine the feasibility of the proposed approach.

\(c\) **Phase 1 Work Plan**. Include a detailed description of the Phase
1 R&D plan. The plan should indicate what will be done, where it will be
done, and how the R&D will be carried out. The methods planned to
achieve each objective or task should be discussed in detail. This
section should be at least one-third of the proposal.

> **NIST technical support or assistance will be available to awardees
> in the conduct of the research only if specifically provided for in
> the subtopic description.**

\(d\) **Related Research or R&D.** Describe research or R&D that is
directly related to the proposal, including any conducted by the
principal investigator or by the offeror. Describe how it relates to the
proposed effort, and describe any planned coordination with outside
sources. The purpose of this section is to demonstrate the offeror\'s
awareness of recent developments in the specific topic area.

\(e\) **Key Personnel and Bibliography of Related Work.** Identify key
personnel involved in Phase 1, including their related education,
experience, and publications. Where resumes are extensive, summaries
that focus on the most relevant experience and publications are
suggested. List all other commitments that key personnel have during the
proposed period of contract performance.

\(f\) **Relationship with Future R&D.** Discuss the significance of the
Phase 1 effort in providing a foundation for the Phase 2 R&D effort.
Also state the anticipated results of the proposed approach, if Phases 1
and 2 of the project are successful.

\(g\) **Facilities and Equipment.** The conduct of advanced research may
require the use of sophisticated instrumentation or computer facilities.
The offeror should provide a detailed description of the availability
and location of the facilities and equipment necessary to carry out
Phase 1. **NIST facilities and/or equipment will be available for use by
awardees only if specifically provided for in the subtopic
description.** If expressed in the subtopic description that access to
NIST resources will be made available, then under mutual agreement
between awardee and NIST staff, arrangements will be planned prior to
NIST labs visits, samples testing or exchange, and any collaborative
discussions.

\(h\) **Consultants and Subcontracts.** The purpose of this section is
to demonstrate that: research assistance from outside the firm
materially benefits the proposed effort, and arrangements for such
assistance are in place at the time the proposal is submitted.

Outside involvement in the project is encouraged where it strengthens
the conduct of the research. Outside involvement is not a requirement of
this solicitation. Outside involvement is limited to no more than 1/3 of
the research and/or analytical effort in Phase 1, per Section 1.04.

> 1\. Consultant - A person outside the firm, named in the proposal as
> contributing to the research, must provide a signed statement
> confirming his/her availability, role in the project, and agreed
> consulting rate for participation in the project. This statement is
> part of the page count.
>
> 2\. Subcontract - Similarly, where a subcontract is involved in the
> research, the subcontracting institution must furnish a letter signed
> by an appropriate official describing the programmatic arrangements
> and confirming its agreed participation in the research, with its
> proposed budget for this participation. This letter is part of the
> page count.
>
> Absence of such documents explaining such a consultant or subcontract,
> if
>
> applicable, may disqualify the offeror from consideration.
>
> No individual or entity may serve as a consultant or subcontractor if
> they:
>
> Had any role in suggesting, developing, or reviewing the subtopic; or
>
> Have been the recipient of any information on the subtopic not
> available to
>
> the public.

\(i\) **Potential Commercial Application.** Describe in detail the
commercial potential of the proposed research, how commercialization
would be pursued and potential use by the Federal Government.

\(j\) **Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADA).** State
if the offeror is a former or current CRADA partner with NIST, or with
any other Federal agency, naming the agency, title of the CRADA, and any
relationship with the proposed work. An Agency may not enter into, nor
continue, a CRADA with an awardee on the subtopic of the award.

\(k\) **Guest Researcher.** State if the offeror or any of its
consultants or subcontractors is a guest researcher at NIST, naming the
sponsoring laboratory.

\(l\) **Cost Sharing.** Cost participation could serve the mutual
interest of NIST and certain SBIR contractors by helping to assure the
efficient use of available resources. Except where required by other
statutes, NIST does not encourage or require cost sharing on Phase 1
projects, nor will cost sharing be a consideration in evaluation of
Phase 1 proposals.

**3.03.03.01 Similar Proposals or Awards**

**NOTE -** While it is permissible, with proposal notification, to
submit identical proposals or proposals containing a significant amount
of essentially equivalent work for consideration under numerous Federal
program solicitations, it is unlawful to enter into funding agreements
requiring essentially equivalent work. If there is any question
concerning this, it must be disclosed to the soliciting agency or
agencies before award.

If an applicant elects to submit identical proposals or proposals
containing a significant amount of essentially equivalent work under
other Federal program solicitations, a statement must be included in
each such proposal indicating:

\(i\) The name and address of the agencies to which proposals were
submitted or from which awards were received.

\(ii\) Date of proposal submission or date of award.

\(iii\) Title, number, and date of solicitations under which proposals
were submitted or awards received.

\(iv\) The specific applicable research topics for each proposal
submitted or award received.

\(v\) Titles of research projects.

\(vi\) Name and title of principal investigator or project manager for
each proposal submitted or award received.

If no equivalent proposal is under consideration or equivalent award
received, a statement to that effect must be included in this section of
the technical content area of the proposal and certified within the
Cover Sheet.

[]{#book3_030302 .anchor}**3.03.03.02 Prior SBIR Phase 2 Awards**

If the small business concern has received more than 15 Phase 2 awards
in the prior five fiscal years, it must submit in its Phase 1 proposal:
name of the awarding agency; date of award; funding agreement number;
amount of award; topic or subtopic title; follow-on agreement amount;
source and date of commitment; and current commercialization status for
each Phase 2 award. **This required information shall not be part of the
25 page count limitation.**

NOTE: The Small Business Administration is mandated to establish an SBIR
awardee database containing demographic, technical, outcome and output
information on all SBIR awards. The database is being developed as of
the date of release of this solicitation. When it becomes available, all
NIST SBIR awardees will be required to supply the required data in a
timely fashion.

**3.03.04** [**[Proposed
Budget]{.underline}**](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/budget_08.pdf)

NIST will not issue SBIR awards that include provisions for
subcontracting any portion of the contract back to the federal
government.

For Phase 1, a minimum of two-thirds of the research and/or analytical
effort must be performed by the proposing small business concern. For
Phase 2 a minimum of one-half of the research and/or analytical effort
must be performed by the proposing small business concern.

Complete the [**[Proposed Budget]{.underline}** required form for the
Phase 1 effort, and include it
as](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/budget_08.pdf) the last page of the
proposal. Some items of this form may not apply to every proposal.
Enough information should be provided to allow NIST to understand how
the offeror plans to use the requested funds if the award is made. A
complete cost breakdown should be provided giving labor rates, proposed
number of hours, overhead, G&A, and profit. A reasonable profit will be
allowed.

The offeror is to submit a cost estimate with detailed information for
each Line Item, consistent with the offeror\'s cost accounting system.
This does not eliminate the need to fully document and justify the
amounts requested in each category. Such documentation should be
contained, as appropriate, within the proposal technical content.

**Lines A and B, Labor.** List the key personnel and consultants by name
and function or role in the project. Other direct personnel need not be
named, but their role, such as "technician," and total hours should be
entered. Personnel whose costs are indirect

(e.g. administrative personnel) should be included in Line D. Fringe
benefits can be listed for each employee in the space provided, or they
may be included within the indirect costs in Line G. The PI must be
employed by the small business concern at the time of contract award and
during the period of performance of the research effort. Additionally,
more than half of the PI\'s time must be spent with the awardee during
the contract performance.

**Line C, Equipment.** List items costing over \$5,000 and exceeding one
year of useful life. Lesser items may be shown in Line D. Indicate if
equipment is to be purchased or leased. Where equipment is to be
purchased or leased, list each individual item with the corresponding
cost. The inclusion of equipment will be carefully reviewed relative to
need and appropriateness for the research proposed.

**Line D, Travel.** Itemize by destination, purpose, period and cost for
both staff and consultants. Budgets including travel funds must be
justified and related to the needs of the project. Inclusion of travel
expenses will be carefully reviewed relative to need and appropriateness
for the research proposed. Foreign travel is not an appropriate expense.

**Line E, Other Direct Costs.** The materials and supplies, testing
and/or computer services, and subcontracts required for the project must
be identified. Specify type, quantity and unit cost (if applicable), and
total estimated cost of these other direct costs.

**Line F, Total Direct Costs.** Enter the sum of Lines A through E.

**Line G, Indirect Costs.** Cite your established Overhead (OH) and
General and Administrative (G&A) rate, if any. Otherwise include all
indirect costs (e.g. facilities, shared equipment, utilities, property
taxes, administrative staff) for the period of the project. Indirect
costs are costs not directly identified with a single final cost
objective.

**\
Line H, Total Costs.** Enter the total amount of the proposed project,
the sum of Lines F and G.

**Line I, Profit.** The small business concern may request a reasonable
profit.

**Line J, Total Amount of this request.** Enter the sum of Lines H and
I. This amount must equal the amount entered in the Cover Sheet Form.

**Line K, Corporate/Business Authorized Representative.** A signature of
someone with the authority to commit the company must be given.

[]{#book4_0 .anchor}**4.0 METHOD OF SELECTION AND EVALUATION CRITERIA**

[]{#book4_01 .anchor}**4.01 Introduction**

All Phase 1 and 2 proposals will be evaluated and judged on a
competitive basis. Proposals will be initially screened to determine
responsiveness. Proposals passing this initial screening will be
technically evaluated by engineers or scientists to determine the most
promising technical and scientific approaches. Each proposal will be
judged on its own merit. The Agency is under no obligation to fund any
proposal or any specific number of proposals in a given topic. It also
may elect to fund several or none of the proposed approaches to the same
topic or subtopic.

[]{#book4_02 .anchor}**4.02 Phase 1 Screening Criteria**

Phase 1 proposals that do not satisfy all the screening criteria shall
be returned to the offeror without further review and will be eliminated
from consideration for award. Proposals may not be resubmitted (with or
without revision) under this solicitation. The screening criteria are:

\(a\) The proposing firm must qualify as eligible according to the
criteria set forth in\
Section 1.03.

\(b\) The Phase 1 proposal must meet **all** of the requirements stated
in [**Section 3**](#book3_0).

\(c\) The Phase 1 proposal must be limited to one subtopic and clearly
address\
research for that subtopic.

\(d\) **Phase 1 total proposal budget must not exceed \$90,000.**

\(e\) **The project duration for the Phase 1 research must not exceed 6
months.**

\(f\) The proposal must contain information sufficient to be peer
reviewed as research.\
\
[]{#book4_03 .anchor}**4.03 Phase 1 Evaluation Criteria**

Phase 1 proposals that comply with the screening criteria will be rated
by NIST scientists or engineers in accordance with the following
criteria:

\(a\) The scientific and technical merit of the proposed research (25
points)

\(b\) Innovation, originality, and feasibility of the proposed research
(20 points)

\(c\) Relevance and responsiveness of the proposed research to the
subtopic to which it is addressed (20 points)

\(d\) Quality and/or adequacy of facilities, equipment, personnel
described in the\
proposal (15 points)

\(e\) Quality of the proposal's commercialization potential as evidenced
by the offerors record of commercializing other research products;
existence of outside, non-SBIR, funding or partnering commitments; or
the presence of other indicators of commercial potential of the idea (20
points)

Technical reviewers will base their ratings on information contained in
the proposal. It cannot be assumed that reviewers are acquainted with
any experiments referred to, key individuals, or the firm. No technical
clarifications may be made after proposal submission.

Final award decisions will be made by NIST based upon ratings assigned
by reviewers and consideration of evaluation of additional factors such
as possible duplication of other research, the importance of the
proposed research as it relates to NIST needs, and the availability of
funding. In the event of a "tie" between proposals,
manufacturing-related projects will receive a priority in the award
selection process. NIST may elect to fund several or none of the
proposals received on a given subtopic. Upon selection of a proposal for
a Phase 1 award, NIST reserves the right to negotiate the amount of the
award.

[]{#book4_04 .anchor}**4.04 Phase 2 Evaluation Criteria**

Phase 2 proposals that comply with the screening criteria will be rated
by NIST scientists or engineers in accordance with the following
criteria:

1\. Degree to which Phase 1 objectives were met (25 points)

2\. The scientific and technical merit of the proposed research,
including innovation, originality, and feasibility (25 points)

3\. Quality and/or adequacy of facilities, equipment, personnel
described in the\
proposal (25 points)

4\. Quality of the proposal's commercialization potential as evidenced
by either the offerors record of commercializing other research
products, existence of outside, non-SBIR, funding or partnering
commitments, or the presence of other indicators of commercial potential
of the idea. (25 points)

[]{#book4_05 .anchor}**4.05 Release of Proposal Review Information**

After final award decisions have been announced, the technical
evaluations of proposals that passed the screening criteria will be
provided to the offeror with written notification of award/non-award.
The identity of the reviewers will not be disclosed.

[]{#book5_0 .anchor}**5.0 CONSIDERATIONS**

[]{#book5_01 .anchor}**5.01 Awards**

NIST will award **firm-fixed-price purchase orders and/or contracts** to
successful offerors. A firm-fixed-price purchase order or contract
identifies a price that is not subject to any adjustment on the basis of
the contractor\'s cost experience in performing the effort. This
agreement type places upon the contractor the risk and full
responsibility for all costs and resulting profit or loss. It provides
maximum incentive for the contractor to control costs and perform
effectively and imposes a minimum administrative burden upon both
parties. NIST also does not allow any advance payments to be made on its
awards.

Contingent upon availability of funds, NIST anticipates making a total
number of approximately 40 Phase 1 firm-fixed-price SBIR awards (between
the two FY08 Solicitations) of no more than \$90,000 each. The
performance period shall be no more than seven (7) months beginning on
the contract start date.

Phase 2 awards shall be for no more than **\$300,000**. The period of
performance in Phase 2 will depend upon the scope of the research, but
should not exceed 25 months.

It is anticipated that approximately one-fourth of the Phase 1 awardees
will receive Phase 2 awards, depending upon the availability of funds.
To provide for an in-depth review of the Phase 1 final report and the
Phase 2 proposal and commercialization plan, Phase 2 awards will be made
approximately 5 months after the completion of Phase 1, contingent upon
availability of funds.

**This solicitation does not obligate NIST to make any awards under
either Phase 1 or Phase 2. Furthermore, NIST is not responsible for any
monies expended by the offerors awards before are made.**

Upon award, the awardee will be required to make certain legal
commitments through acceptance of numerous clauses in Phase 1 funding
agreements. The outline that follows is illustrative of the types of
clauses to which the contractor would be committed. This list is not a
complete list of clauses to be included in Phase 1 funding agreements,
and is not the specific wording of such clauses. Copies of complete
terms and conditions are available upon request.

These statements are examples only and may vary depending upon the type
of funding agreement used.

\(1\) Standards of Work. Work performed under the funding agreement must
conform to high professional standards.

\(2\) Inspection. Work performed under the funding agreement is subject
to Government inspection, evaluation, and acceptance at all times.

\(3\) Examination of Records. The Comptroller General (or a duly
authorized representative) must have the right to examine any pertinent
records of the awardee involving transactions related to this funding
agreement.

\(4\) Default. The Government may terminate the funding agreement if the
contractor fails to perform the work contracted.

\(5\) Termination for Convenience. The funding agreement may be
terminated at any time by the Government if it deems termination to be
in its best interest, in which case the awardee will be compensated for
work performed and for reasonable termination costs.

\(6\) Disputes. Any dispute concerning the funding agreement that cannot
be resolved by agreement must be decided by the contracting officer with
right of appeal.

\(7\) Contract Work Hours. The awardee may not require an employee to
work more than 8 hours a day or 40 hours a week unless the employee is
compensated accordingly (for example, overtime pay).

\(8\) Equal Opportunity. The awardee will not discriminate against any
employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion,
sex, or national origin.

\(9\) Affirmative Action for Veterans. The awardee will not discriminate
against any employee or application for employment because he or she is
a disabled veteran or veteran of the Vietnam era.

\(10\) Affirmative Action for Handicapped. The awardee will not
discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because he
or she is physically or mentally handicapped.

\(11\) Officials Not To Benefit. No Government official must benefit
personally from the SBIR funding agreement.

\(12\) Covenant Against Contingent Fees. No person or agency has been
employed to solicit or secure the funding agreement upon an
understanding for compensation except bona fide employees or commercial
agencies maintained by the awardee for the purpose of securing business.

\(13\) Gratuities. The funding agreement may be terminated by the
Government if any gratuities have been offered to any representative of
the Government to secure the award.

\(14\) Patent Infringement. The awardee must report each notice or claim
of patent infringement based on the performance of the funding
agreement.

\(15\) American Made Equipment and Products. When purchasing equipment
or a product under the SBIR funding agreement, purchase only
American-made items whenever possible.

[]{#book5_02 .anchor}**5.02 Reports**

A final report on the Phase 1 project shall be submitted to NIST within
30 calendar days after completion of the 6-month Phase 1 activity
period. The total period of performance for Phase 1 is seven months. An
R&D final report on the Phase 2 project shall be submitted to NIST
within 30 calendar days after completion of the two-year Phase 2 R&D
activity period. The total period of performance for Phase 2 is 25
months.

Each final report shall include a single-page project summary as the
first page, identifying the purpose of the research, and giving a brief
description of the research carried out, the research findings or
results, and the commercial applications of the research in a final
paragraph. The remainder of the report should indicate in detail the
research objectives, research work carried out, results obtained, and
estimates of technical feasibility.

All final reports must carry an acknowledgment on the cover page such
as: \"This material is based upon work supported by the National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) under contract
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or
recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s)
and do not necessarily reflect the views of NIST.\"

[]{#book5_03 .anchor}**5.03 Deliverables**

Offers submitted in response to subtopics that require delivery of a
prototype should state in the proposal, the plan to develop and deliver
the specified prototype. Notwithstanding the absence of such an explicit
statement in the offeror's proposal, delivery of the developed prototype
as called for by the solicitation subtopic is required.

[]{#book5_04 .anchor}**5.04 Payment Schedule**

The specific payment schedule (including payment amounts) for each award
will be incorporated into the purchase order and/or contract.

No advance payments will be allowed.

NIST will allow the Phase 1 award amount to be paid on a bimonthly
interim basis upon delivery and acceptance of three progress reports
that describe services performed, and one final payment upon delivery
and acceptance of the final report.

NIST will allow the Phase 2 award amount to be paid in five equal
increments on an interim basis upon delivery and acceptance of four
progress reports (at the 2^nd^, 6^th^, 12^th^, and 18^th^ months of the
project) that describe services performed, and one final equal increment
payment upon delivery of the final R&D report and prototype, if
applicable per subtopic requirement, at the 25^th^ month of the project.

[]{#book5_05 .anchor}**5.05 Proprietary Information, Inventions, and
Patents**

**5.05.01 Limited Rights Information and Data**

Information contained in unsuccessful proposals will remain the property
of the offeror. Any proposal which is funded will not be made available
to the public, except for the \"Project Summary\" page.

The inclusion of proprietary information is discouraged unless it is
necessary for the proper evaluation of the proposal.

Information contained in unsuccessful proposals will remain the property
of the applicant. The Government may, however, retain copies of all
proposals. Public release of information in any proposal submitted will
be subject to existing statutory and regulatory requirements. If
proprietary information is provided by an offeror in a proposal, which
constitutes a trade secret, proprietary commercial or financial
information, confidential personal information or data affecting the
national security, it will be treated in confidence, to the extent
permitted by law. This information must be clearly marked by the
applicant with the term \"confidential proprietary information\" and the
following legend must appear on the first page of the technical section
of the proposal:

\"These data shall not be disclosed outside the Government and shall not
be

> duplicated, used, or disclosed in whole or in part for any purpose
> other than
>
> evaluation of this proposal. If a funding agreement is awarded to this
>
> applicant as a result of or in connection with the submission of these
> data,
>
> the Government shall have the right to duplicate, use, or disclose the
> data to
>
> the extent provided in the funding agreement and pursuant to
> applicable
>
> law. This restriction does not limit the Government\'s right to use
> information
>
> contained in the data if it is obtained from another source without
> restriction.
>
> The data subject to this restriction are contained on pages \_\_\_\_
> of this
>
> proposal.\"

Any other legend may be unacceptable to the Government and may
constitute grounds for removing the proposal from further consideration,
without assuming any liability for inadvertent disclosure. The
Government will limit dissemination of such information to within
official channels.\"

**5.05.02 Copyrights**

The contractor may normally establish claim to copyright any written
material first produced in the performance of an SBIR contract. If a
claim to copyright is made, the contractor shall affix the applicable
copyright notice of 17 U.S.C. 401 or 402 and acknowledgment of
Government sponsorship (including funding agreement number) to the
material when delivered to the Government, as well as when the written
material or data are published or deposited for registration as a
published work in the US Copyright Office. For other than computer
software, the contractor gives to the Government, and others acting on
its behalf, a paid-up, nonexclusive, irrevocable, worldwide license to
reproduce, prepare derivative works, distribute copies to the public,
and perform publicly and display publicly, by or on behalf of the
Government.

For computer software, the contractor gives to the Government a paid-up,
nonexclusive, irrevocable, worldwide license for all such computer
software to reproduce, prepare derivative works, and perform publicly
and display publicly, by or on behalf of the Government.

**5.05.03 Rights in Data Developed Under SBIR Contracts**

To preserve the SBIR data rights of the awardee, the legend (or
statements) used in the SBIR Data Rights clause included in the SBIR
award must be affixed to any submissions of technical data developed
under that SBIR award. If no Data Rights clause is included in the SBIR
award, the following legend, at a minimum, should be affixed to any data
submissions under that award:

**SBIR RIGHTS NOTICE**

> "These SBIR data are furnished with SBIR rights under Contract No.
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (and subcontract No. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ if
> appropriate), Awardee Name \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_, Address, Expiration
> Period of SBIR Data Rights \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_. The Government may
> not use, modify, reproduce, release, perform, display, or disclose
> technical data or computer software marked with this legend for
> (choose four (4) or five (5) years). After expiration of the (4- or
> 5-year period), the Government has a royalty-free license to use, and
> to authorize others to use on its behalf, these data for Government
> purposes, and is relieved of all disclosure prohibitions and assumes
> no liability for unauthorized use of these data by third parties,
> except that any such data that is also protected and referenced under
> a subsequent SBIR award shall remain protected through the protection
> period of that subsequent SBIR award. Reproductions of these data or
> software must include this legend."

**(END OF NOTICE)**

The Government\'s sole obligation with respect to any properly
identified SBIR data shall be as set forth in the paragraph above.

**5.05.04 Patents**

Small business concerns normally may retain the principal worldwide
patent rights to any invention developed with Government support. The
Government receives a royalty free license for Federal Government use,
reserves the right to require the patent holder to license others in
certain circumstances, and requires that anyone exclusively licensed to
sell the invention in the United States must normally manufacture it
domestically. To the extent authorized by 35U.S.C. 205, the Government
will not make public any information disclosing a Government supported
invention for a minimum 4-year period (that may be extended by
subsequent SBIR funding agreements) to allow the awardee a reasonable
time to pursue a patent**.**

**5.05.05 Invention Reporting**

SBIR awardees must report inventions to the NIST SBIR Program within 2
months of the inventor's report to the awardee. The reporting of
inventions may be accomplished by submitting paper documentation,
including fax or through the iEdison Invention Reporting System at
[**[www.iedison.gov]{.underline}**.](http://www.iedison.gov/)

[]{#book5_06 .anchor}**5.06 Additional Information**

\(1\) If there is any inconsistency between the information contained
herein and the terms of any resulting SBIR funding agreement, the terms
of the funding agreement are controlling.

\(2\) Before award of an SBIR funding agreement, the Government may
request the applicant to submit certain organizational, management,
personnel, and financial information to assure responsibility of the
applicant.

\(3\) The Government is not responsible for any monies expended by the
applicant before award of any funding agreement.

\(4\) This program solicitation is not an offer by the Government and
does not obligate the Government to make any specific number of awards.
Also, awards under the SBIR Program are contingent upon the availability
of funds.

\(5\) The SBIR Program is not a substitute for existing unsolicited
proposal mechanisms. Unsolicited proposals will not be accepted under
the SBIR Program in either Phase 1 or Phase 2.

\(6\) If an award is made pursuant to a proposal submitted under this
SBIR Program solicitation, a representative of the contractor will be
required to certify that the concern has not previously been, nor is
currently being, paid for essentially equivalent work by any Federal
agency.

\(7\) The responsibility for the performance of the principal
investigator, and other\
employees or consultants who carry out the proposed work, lies with the
management of the organization receiving an award.

\(8\) Cost-sharing is permitted for proposals under this program
solicitation; however, cost-sharing is not required. Cost-sharing will
not be an evaluation factor in consideration of your Phase 1 proposal.

[]{#book5_07 .anchor}**5.07 Research Projects with Human Subjects, Human
Tissue, Data or Recordings Involving Human Subjects**

Any proposal that includes research involving human subjects, human
tissue, data or recordings involving human subjects must meet the
requirements of the Common Rule for the Protection of Human Subjects,
codified for the Department of Commerce at [15 CFR Part 27. In addition,
any proposal that includes such research on these topics
must](http://www.nist.gov/cgi-bin/exit_nist.cgi?url=http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_99/15cfr27_99.html)
be in compliance with any statutory requirements imposed upon NIH and
other federal agencies regarding these topics, all regulatory policies
and guidance adopted by NIH, FDA, and other federal agencies on these
topics, and all Presidential statements of policy on these topics. Any
questions regarding these requirements should be addressed to Melissa
Lieberman at (301) 975-4783 or
[**melissa.lieberman@nist.gov**](mailto:melissa.lieberman@nist.gov).

**IRB Education Documentation.** A signed and dated letter is required
from the Organizational Official who is authorized to enter into
commitments on behalf of the organization documenting that appropriate
IRB education has been received by the Organizational Official, the IRB
Coordinator or such person that coordinates the IRB documents and
materials if such a person exists, the IRB Chairperson, all IRB members
and all key personnel associated with the proposal. The NIST requirement
of documentation of education is consistent with NIH notice OD-00-039
(June 5, 2000). Although NIST will not endorse an educational
curriculum, there are several curricula that are available to
organizations and investigators which may be found at:
[**[http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-00-039.html]{.underline}**.](http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-00-039.html)

[]{#book5_08 .anchor}**5.08 Research Projects Involving Vertebrate
Animals**

Any proposal that includes research involving vertebrate animals
(including fish) must be in compliance with the National Research
Council's \"Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals\" which can
be obtained from National Academy Press, 2101 Constitution Avenue, NW,
Washington, D.C. 20055. In addition, such proposals must meet the
requirements of the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. 2131 et seq.), 9 CFR
Parts
[1,](http://www.nist.gov/cgi-bin/exit_nist.cgi?url=http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_01/9cfr1_01.html)
[2](http://www.nist.gov/cgi-bin/exit_nist.cgi?url=http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_01/9cfr2_01.html),
and
[3,](http://www.nist.gov/cgi-bin/exit_nist.cgi?url=http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_01/9cfr3_01.html)
and if appropriate, [**[21 CFR Part
58]{.underline}**.](http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_01/21cfr58_01.html)
These regulations do not apply to proposed research using pre-existing
images of animals or to research plans that **do not** include live
animals that are being cared for, euthanized, or used by the project
participants to accomplish research goals, teaching, or testing. These
regulations also do not apply to obtaining animal materials from
commercial processors of animal products or to animal cell lines or
tissues from tissue banks.

[]{#book6_0 .anchor}**6.0 SUBMISSION OF PROPOSALS**

[]{#book6_01 .anchor}**6.01 Deadline for Proposals**

WHEN: The deadline for SBIR-R Phase 1 proposals is Friday, January 25,
2008 at 3:00:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST).

**NIST does not accept electronic submission of proposals.**

All Offerors should expect delay in delivery due to added security at
NIST. It is the responsibility of the Offeror to make sure delivery is
made on time.

If proposals are to be hand delivered prior to the due, delivery must be
made by the actual dateline and a 24-hour notice must be made to the
NIST Contracts Office prior to delivery. All Offerors must notify
Myrsonia Lutz at 301-975-8329. The name of the individual or courier
company making the delivery must be included in the notification.

NIST will not for evaluate proposals received after the stated deadline
or that do not adhere to the other requirements of this solicitation
(see checklist in section 8.04).

**[[Federal Acquisition
Regulation]{.underline}](http://www.arnet.gov/far/loadmainre.html)**
(FAR 52.215-1) regarding late proposals shall apply.

Letters of instruction will be sent to those eligible to submit Phase 2
proposals. The Phase 2 proposals are due shortly after the deadline for
Phase 1 final reports.

Offerors are cautioned to be careful of unforeseen delays, which can
cause late arrival of proposals at NIST, resulting in them not being
included in the evaluation procedures. No information on the status of
proposals under scientific/technical evaluation will be available until
formal notification is made.

[]{#book6_02 .anchor}**6.02 Proposal Submission**

Because of the heightened security at NIST, USPS, FED-EX, UPS or similar
courier service is the preferred method of delivery of proposals.

**If courier delivered**, the Offeror must submit the proposal packages
**(four** (**4) copies)** as defined in [**Section 3.03**](#book3_03)
to:

> National Institute of Standards and Technology\
> Acquisitions and Management Division\
> Attn: Myrsonia Lutz, NIST--08-SBIR-R\
> 100 Bureau Drive STOP 1640 Building 301, Room B125\
> Gaithersburg, MD 20899-1640

Telephone Number: (301) 975-8329

**Hand delivery will be accepted ONLY on the due date Friday, January
25, 2008 from**

**8:00 AM EST until closing time at 3:00:00 PM EST at the following
location:**

National Institute of Standards and Technology

100 Bureau Drive (Off Clopper Road)

**Visitor Center ONLY**

Gaithersburg, MD 20899

**Photocopies will be accepted.**

Acknowledgment of receipt of a proposal by NIST will be made. All
correspondence relating to proposals must cite the specific **proposal
number** identified on the acknowledgment.

> \(a\) **Packaging\--Secure packaging is mandatory. NIST cannot process
> proposals damaged in transit. All 4 copies of the proposal must be
> sent in the same package. Do not send separate \"information copies,\"
> or several packages containing parts of a single proposal, or two
> packages of 4 copies of the same proposal . Clearly mark the bottom
> right-hand corner of the package with the subtopic number to which the
> proposal is responding.**
>
> \(b\) Bindings\--**Do not use special bindings or covers.** Staple the
> pages in the upper left- hand corner of each proposal. Separation or
> loss of proposal pages cannot be the responsibility of NIST.

[]{#book7_0 .anchor}**7.0 SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION SOURCES\
**

Background information related to the NIST research programs referenced
within the subtopics may be found within the NIST website at:
[**[www.nist.gov]{.underline}**.](http://www.nist.gov/) Wherever
possible, reference citations are provided within the individual
subtopics.

> []{#book8_0 .anchor}**8.0 SUBMISSION FORMS**

[]{#book8_01 .anchor}**8.01 Click on this link: [[Cover
Sheet]{.underline}](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/cover_08.pdf) in
order to access the required form (2 pages) in pdf format.**

[]{#book8_02 .anchor}**8.02 Click on this link: [[Project
Summary]{.underline}](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/project_summary_08.pdf)
in order to access the required form in pdf format.**

[]{#book8_03 .anchor}**8.03 [Click on this link: [Proposed
Budget]{.underline}](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/budget_08.pdf) in
order to access the required form in pdf format.**

[]{#book8_04 .anchor}**8.04 Checklist of Requirements**

Please review this checklist carefully to assure that your proposal
meets the NIST requirements. Failure to meet these screening
requirements will result in your proposal being returned without
consideration. **Four copies of the proposal must be received by
3:00p.m. EST January 25, 2008.**

1\. The [**[COVER
SHEET]{.underline}**](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/cover_08.pdf) (both
pages combined) has been completed and is **PAGE 1** of the proposal.

2\. The [**[PROJECT SUMMARY]{.underline}** has been completed and
is](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/project_summary_08.pdf) **PAGE 2** of
the proposal.

3\. The **TECHNICAL CONTENT** of the proposal **begins on PAGE 3** and
includes the items identified in **SECTION 3.3.3** of the solicitation.
The technical content section of the proposal is limited to 22 pages in
length.

4\. The [**SBIR PROPOSAL [PROPOSED
BUDGET]{.underline}**](http://tsapps.nist.gov/ts_sbir/budget_08.pdf) has
been completed and is the **LAST PAGE** of the proposal.

5\. The entire proposal, including forms and the technical content, is
**25 PAGES OR LESS** in length.

6\. The proposal is limited to only **ONE** of the subtopics in Section
9.

7\. The proposal budget is for **\$90,000 or LESS**. No more than
one-third of the budget is allocated to consultants and/or
subcontractors.

8\. The abstract contains **no proprietary information** and does **not
exceed** space provided on the Project Summary.

9\. The proposal contains only pages of 21.6cm X 27.9cm size (8 ½\" X
11\").

10\. The proposal contains an **easy-to-read font (fixed pitch of 12 or
fewer characters per inch or proportional font of point size 10 or
larger) with no more than 6 lines per inch,** except as a legend on
reduced drawings, but not tables.

11\. The P.I. is employed by the company.

NOTE: Offerors are cautioned to be careful of unforeseen delays that can
cause late arrival of proposals, with the result that they **WILL** not
be forwarded for evaluation.

**Potential offerors are advised to sign up within
[www.fedbizopps.com](http://www.fedbizopps.com/) to receive notification
of any amendment to the solicitation that may be released after opening
date. Also, potential offerors are advised to check the public Q&A
website for up to date information concerning specific subtopics that
may be posted during the Solicitation open period.**

[]{#book9_0 .anchor}**9.0 RESEARCH TOPIC AREAS**

[]{#book9_01 .anchor}**9.01 [Analytical Methods](#book9_02)**

**9.01.1-1.R Cryogenics for Kilopixel Sensor Arrays**

> NIST is a world leader in the development of superconducting
> transition edge sensors (TESs) and SQUID amplifiers for a wide variety
> of applications. These include ultra-high-resolution x-ray
> spectroscopy for the semiconductor industry \[1\], gamma ray
> spectroscopy for isotopic plutonium analysis \[2\] and nuclear fuel
> rod assay, submm astronomy \[3\] and polarimetry of the Cosmic
> Microwave background \[4\]. All of these applications have reached a
> level of maturity where large format arrays (thousands of pixels) are
> desired. These large arrays provide high system count rates and/or
> rapid mapping speeds and are often required for TES arrays to fully
> replace older, less capable technologies. The sensitivity of TESs is
> derived from their ultralow operating temperature near 0.1 K. Hence,
> TES arrays require robust, cryogen-free refrigeration systems that
> reach temperatures below 100 mK and are compact enough to allow them
> to be operated from mobile platforms or at remote sites such as a high
> mountain top.
>
> Detector development has reached a point where kilopixel arrays are
> now feasible. However, the cryogenic technology is not at the same
> point. Kilopixel arrays require physically large housings that support
> and shield them. These housings approach 5 kg in weight. In addition,
> even with SQUID multiplexing, kilopixel arrays require several hundred
> wires running to the cold stage. The heat load from these wires and
> the dissipation from the array itself can reach 10 microWatts.
> Existing compact commercial refrigerators can cope neither with the
> mass nor the power load of kilopixel arrays.
>
> Commercial refrigerator technology for reaching below 100 mK is
> divided into two technologies, continuously operating dilution
> refrigerators and single shot ADR's (Adiabatic Demagnetization
> Refrigerator). Both technologies are available in cryogen-free systems
> using pulse tube mechanical coolers to reach 4K. However,
> conventional-cycle dilution refrigerators require considerable
> infrastructure and are not portable. Commercially available ADRs are
> compact and easy to move from site-to-site but are limited to payload
> masses of \~ 1 kg and dissipation levels below 1 microWatt, and thus
> are incompatible with kilopixel arrays.
>
> To alleviate this situation and remove a crucial barrier to the wide
> dissemination and application of NIST\'s detector arrays, proposals
> are invited for design studies of two possible future 0.1 K
> refrigerator architectures. The first architecture is a single-stage
> ADR backed by a sorption-pumped helium-3 refrigerator. The helium-3
> refrigerator should be a self-contained system that recycles from 3-4
> K and achieves \~ 0.3 K or lower. The second architecture is an ADR
> with a single magnet and three salt pills connected mechanically and
> thermally in series. Two of these pills serve as heat intercepts for
> the third and final stage. The ADR must launch from 3-4 K. The design
> study should compare the ability of these architectures to cool masses
> of several kg to 0.1 K, to withstand heat loads of several microWatts,
> and to remain below 0.1 K for several days. System complexity and cost
> should also be considered. NIST staff will work closely with the
> awardee to model the cooling performance of the two refrigerator
> architectures.
>
> The mechanical support of the detector stage must also be addressed in
> the design study. This support must be mechanically compact, be
> capable of holding several kg of weight on the detector stage, resist
> the forces on the salt pill at the maximum field of the magnet, and
> reproducibly position on each cool-down.
>
> Heat switches must also be addressed in the study -- there are a
> variety of technologies that are available and the best type for each
> temperature stage needs to be studied. Heat sinking of cables at the
> various temperature stages plays a crucial role in minimizing their
> heat load and thus should be examined as well. Finally, temperature
> stabilization of the 4K stage should also be part of the study.
>
> In the later stages of the project, the awardee will construct and
> test a prototype of the refrigerator type that is deemed superior as a
> result of the design study. The prototype must be compatible with a
> commercially available cryogen-free 3 K dewar. Compatibility with
> NIST\'s existing cryogen-free 3 K dewars is preferred. NIST will
> provide detailed dimensional specifications for these units and
> provide access to one of these units for testing of the prototype.

Milestones for the project are listed below:

> Phase 1\
> - Delivery of design study
>
> Phase 2 year 1\
> - Detailed mechanical design complete. Demonstration of ADR mechanical
> suspension.\
> \
> Phase 2 year 2\
> - Integration of all components into a fully functioning system,
> delivered to NIST along with detailed mechanical drawings.
>
> References:
>
> 1\. High-Resolution, Energy-Dispersive Microcalorimeter Spectrometer
> for X-Ray Microanalysis, Wollman, D.A.; Irwin, K.D.; Hilton, G.C.;
> Dulcie, L.L.; Newbury, D.E.; Martinis, J.M., J. Microscopy 188(3):
> 196-223, Dec 1997.
>
> 2\. 14-pixel, multiplexed array of gamma-ray microcalorimeters with 47
> eV energy resolution at 103 keV, Doriese, W. B.; Ullom, J. N.; Beall,
> J. A. et al, Applied Physics Letters 90: 193508, 2007.
>
> 3\. SCUBA-2: a 10,000-pixel submillimeter camera for the James Clerk
> Maxwell Telescope Holland, W. S. et al., SPIE Proceedings Vol. 6275
> Millimeter and Submillimeter Detectors and Instrumentation for
> Astronomy III, 2006.
>
> 4\. Weiss Committee Report- final report DoE/NASA/NSF interagency task
> force on CMB research chaired by Rai Weiss: Task Force on Cosmic
> Microwave Background Research : Published on astro-ph 0604101 2005.

**9.01.2-3.R Contactless Conductivity Detector for Temperature Gradient
Focusing**

> The need for highly sensitive techniques for chemical analysis that
> are also robust and potentially portable is apparent in a number of
> application areas including health care, homeland security, and
> environmental monitoring. Although there are a number of sensitive
> detection techniques such as laser induced fluorescence (LIF), UV
> absorbance, and electrochemical detection that are suitable for use in
> a laboratory setting, they all have drawbacks that make them difficult
> to implement outside the laboratory in a low-cost or portable format.
> For example, LIF and UV absorbance detection often require bulky
> and/or expensive light sources and are susceptible to misalignment of
> optical components. Electrochemical detection can provide very
> sensitive detection, but is subject to the degradation of the sensing
> electrodes as they are in contact with the sample solution. In
> addition, many analytes of interest (inorganic ions, and many
> metabolites, for example) are not detectable by LIF, UV, or
> electrochemical detection.
>
> Contactless conductivity detection is a relatively new detection
> strategy that requires only simple electronic components and is not
> subject to electrode fouling. It can therefore be easily be
> implemented in a robust and portable format, and is capable of
> detecting virtually any type of analyte in solution. Contactless
> conductivity detection, however, suffers from relatively poor
> detection limits, and so is not typically used for trace analysis.
> Temperature Gradient Focusing (TGF) is a newly developed technique for
> the simultaneous concentration and separation of analytes in solution
> \[1,2\]. It has been demonstrated with a large range of analytes
> including amino acids, drugs, proteins, nucleic acids, nanoparticles,
> and for applications including mutation detection, chiral analysis,
> and the binding of small molecules to proteins. However, it has been
> used primarily with fluorescence detection. Because of the ability of
> TGF to provide high resolution separations and 100-fold to 10,000-fold
> analyte concentration, NIST is interested in studying the use of TGF
> in conjunction with contactless conductivity detection for the
> analysis of inorganic ions and non-UV-absorbing, non-fluorescent
> metabolites at low (\<u mol/L) concentrations.
>
> Therefore, NIST seeks the design and construction of a prototype
> apparatus for Temperature Gradient Focusing (TGF) with contactless
> conductivity detection. NIST is willing to work collaboratively with
> the awardee on all aspects of the project. A first prototype will be
> delivered to NIST for evaluation for Phase 1. The Phase 1 prototype
> apparatus will be comprised of a capillary or microchannel chip for
> temperature gradient focusing, fluid reservoirs for buffer and sample,
> electrode connections to the fluid reservoirs, the contactless
> conductivity detector, and a means for controlling the temperature
> gradient applied along the capillary or microchannel. The high voltage
> power supply and precision pressure controller, which are also
> necessary for TGF need not be included in the Phase 1 prototype,
> though it should also include the means to connect to an existing high
> voltage power supply, pressure controller, and data-logging computer
> once the prototype is delivered to NIST.
>
> Phase 2, if awarded, will involve the design of an improved apparatus
> taking into account the results obtained with the Phase 1 prototype.
> The Phase 2 prototype will be a complete stand-alone apparatus,
> comprising all of the components of the Phase 1 prototype as well as
> the high voltage power supply and pressure controller.
>
> References:
>
> 1\. Ross, D., and Locascio, L. E. (2002) Analytical Chemistry 74,
> 2556-2564.
>
> 2\. Hoebel, S. J., Balss, K. M., Jones, B. J., Malliaris, C. D.,
> Munson, M. S., Vreeland, W. N., and Ross, D. (2006) Analytical
> Chemistry 78, 7186-7190.

[]{#book9_02 .anchor}**9.02 Homeland Security**

**9.02.1-4.R High Spectral Purity, Millimeter-Wavelength (W-band)
Oscillator**

> For a given channel that carries data, the modulation index defines
> the extent of occupied bandwidth required for modulation and
> demodulation of an otherwise perfect, unmodulated carrier signal.
> (Modulation index is the modulation-induced carrier-frequency
> deviation divided by the information data rate.) It is desirable for
> communications systems to employ carrier signals of high spectral
> purity and at carrier frequencies that are hard to detect so that the
> modulation (data information) can have low enough modulation indexes
> so as to avoid detection and demodulation by unauthorized
> eavesdroppers.
>
> To this end, applicants are asked to develop millimeter-wavelength
> (W-band) oscillator signals of the highest possible spectral purity,
> and conversely, the lowest phase and amplitude noise. The preferred
> frequency band is 90 GHz to 110 GHz. (Note: Proposals are also
> solicited in this area in the NIST SBIR TT Solicitation for those
> offerors who would require licensing of NIST's U. S. Patent 7,075,378
> B2. We seek proposals for the best possible solution, regardless of
> whether or not Patent 7,075,378 B2 is required. Only apply under this
> Solicitation if the proposal does not require licensing of the NIST
> patent.)
>
> The Phase 1 portion of this subtopic must result in a plan to develop
> millimeter-wavelength oscillating signals, a prediction of spectral
> phase noise levels vs. offset frequency from 1 Hz to 100 MHz, an
> estimate of the fabrication cost, and an estimate of size, weight, and
> power requirements. If the plan is envisioned as promising,
> continuation to Phase 2 may be warranted. In Phase 2, a prototype
> oscillator must be developed and delivered to NIST for evaluation. We
> do not anticipate working collaboratively with the awardee to
> accomplish the project goals, but would be available for consultation
> on any aspects of the project.

[]{#book9_03 .anchor}**9.03 Information Technology**

**9.03.1-4.R Efficient Low-Dark-Count Detector for Photon Counting**

> Photon counting in the infrared is a difficult task, but of pressing
> interest for emerging quantum information applications. The most
> commercially advanced detector in this region is the InGaAs avalanche
> photodiode (APD), which, as currently available, has low detection
> efficiency (10 % to 50 %), significant afterpulsing requiring long
> dead time, and high dark count rates (50,000 cts/s to 500,000 cts/s),
> requiring gated biasing for practical operation.
>
> We seek development of an infrared detector optimized for photon
> counting at a wavelength of 1.5 microns. The detector should have a
> detection efficiency of 80% or greater and a dark count rate of less
> than 1000 cts/s. The detector should be capable of operating at count
> rates of greater than 1 MHz with dead time less than 1 microsecond.
> For the intended applications, timing is critical, so the timing
> jitter of the detector output relative to the input pulse should be
> less than 1 ns. The design should be robust with a mean time between
> failures of 10,000 hrs or greater.
>
> (An InGaAs APD is expected, but another detector meeting the same
> characteristics and final form factor, including any necessary cooling
> apparatus, will also be considered. In addition, its ultimate
> commercial cost should be comparable to existing InGaAs APDs.)
>
> At the end of Phase 1 the vendor must provide a minimum of 10
> fiber-coupled detector samples to NIST, which will become property of
> NIST. Though not necessary, NIST would consider working
> collaboratively with the awardee to help with evaluation of the
> operating parameters. At the end of Phase 2 the vendor must have
> developed a complete detector package with all the required support
> electronics suitable for commercialization meeting the above
> requirements with two complete detector package prototypes to be
> delivered to NIST for evaluation, which will become property of NIST.
> Though not necessary, NIST would consider working collaboratively with
> the awardee to help with evaluation of the operating parameters.

[]{#book9_04 .anchor}**9.04 Manufacturing System Integration**

**9.04.1-2.R Validation tools for OWL Based Supply Chain Integration**

> Message content standards are the main tool used today to enable
> integration of partners\' systems within manufacturing supply chains.
> These standards attempt to specify the data required for each
> transaction in some particular class of business process. Because
> these standards focus on the message content they create the following
> difficulties:
>
> • Content specifications often assume a particular data encoding
> technology which limits the expressivity of the specification, limits
> the applicability to a particular class of implementations, and
> needlessly limits the useful life of the standard.
>
> • There is quite a lot of variability in how a class of business
> process is actually executed. This can affect both the applicable
> transactions and the data content of those transactions. Some of this
> variability is known at the time of standardization and support for it
> greatly increases the complexity of the resulting standards.
>
> • The focus on particular data requirements for particular
> transactions tends to artificially separate the underlying concepts
> from transactional data requirements, making the concepts hard to see
> and leading to idiosyncratic data formats.
>
> The Manufacturing Systems Integration Division has proposed an
> alternative approach to specifications for messaging wherein an
> over-arching conceptual model is created and the messages are
> specified by mappings to this model. The Web Ontology Language OWL,
> with its formal semantics and significant tool support, is a good
> choice for specifying these conceptual models. OWL is layered on other
> Semantic Web standards and these can be exploited to provide a nearly
> complete framework for messaging. RDF provides a serialization form
> and the weak typing of the whole language stack provides the
> flexibility needed for supporting variation and even evolution in the
> supported business processes. There are, however, a number of
> weaknesses in this stack as a framework for message standardization.
> First, it doesn\'t include a mapping language of sufficient richness,
> but more importantly, OWL lacks a language for specifying the
> requirements for data content in a given message. For this we need a
> different interpretation of an OWL model (Ontology) as a set of
> constraints for validation (which will require a Closed World view of
> a data set) and some additional OWL language constructs that provide
> for the identification of and navigation to instances (Individuals in
> OWL). The addition of these features has been discussed in the OWLED
> workshop series, various academic papers, and is now a focus of the
> DatabasEsque task force. Note that in the OWLED workshop and related
> references these constraints are referred to as integrity constraints.
> Current informal expectations for language features needed in the
> extension include:
>
> • Integrity constraint interpretation of hasValue, someValuesFrom, and
> allValuesFrom restrictions,
>
> • Integrity constraint interpretation of minCardinality,
> maxCardinality, and cardinality restrictions,
>
> • Support for InverseFunctional DatatypeProperties, InverseFunctional
> ObjectProperties, and potentially InverseFunctional Property sets
> (compound keys) as identifying values (keys),
>
> • Integrity constraint interpretation of restrictions based on user
> defined DataTypes or DataRanges.
>
> This SBIR solicitation seeks development of tools implementing data
> set validation using OWL with this extension, which will lead to
> developing a commercial validation tool to be effectively used to test
> and validate data sets in supply chains. A successful Phase 1 offeror
> would deliver to NIST:
>
> • a description of the validation vocabulary as a rough draft
> extension to OWL,
>
> • a paper explaining the extension and issues that are anticipated in
> implementing tooling to support it,
>
> • a proof of concept implementation of a corresponding data set
> validation tool, supporting a subset of the language constructs in the
> OWL extension, suitable for embedding in a research test system.

A successful Phase 2 offeror would deliver to NIST:

> • a specification for an extension to OWL that adds the validation
> features and is informed by the Phase 1 work,
>
> • a robust beta version of a validation tool implementing most of the
> features of this extension at a level of performance which
> demonstrates the viability of this technology to participants in
> message driven supply chains.
>
> The awardee(s) will work with NIST staff members who are involved in
> supply chain messaging standards and testing to develop requirements
> for language features and tool performance that will guide development
> of the OWL extension and validation tool.
>
> References:
>
> [**http://owled2007.iut-velizy.uvsq.fr/PapersPDF/submission_9.pd**f](http://owled2007.iut-velizy.uvsq.fr/PapersPDF/submission_9.pdf)

[**http://code.google.com/p/owl1-1/wiki/DatabasEsque**](http://code.google.com/p/owl1-1/wiki/DatabasEsque)

[**9.04.2-2.R Time Synchronization of Wireless Sensor
Networks**](http://code.google.com/p/owl1-1/wiki/DatabasEsque)

> In recent years, the manufacturing industry has shifted from
> centralized control to more distributed architectures. Manufacturing
> process measurement and control applications are increasingly using
> distributed system technologies such as network communication and
> distributed objects. Manufacturing sensor networks, consisting of a
> number of sensor and actuator nodes, are connected to monitor specific
> physical parameters of a machine or to control machine motions. Hence,
> sensor networks play a very important role in distributed
> manufacturing process measurement, monitoring, diagnosis, and possible
> control operation. The IEEE 1451.0 smart transducer interface standard
> \[1\] provides a common interface and enabling technology for
> connecting transducers to IEEE 1451.5 wireless sensor networks \[2\].
> The IEEE 1588 standard \[3\] specifies a protocol to synchronize
> independent clocks running on sensor network nodes of a distributed
> measurement and control system to a high degree of accuracy and
> precision. Thus, the integration of IEEE 1451 and IEEE 1588 provide a
> means to ensure the quality and synchronicity of real-time sensor data
> in a manufacturing sensor network. NIST has developed an objected
> oriented model \[4\], which can be used to explore time
> synchronization of wireless sensor networks.
>
> Innovative ideas are sought that create new ways that use the NIST
> object oriented model \[4\] to develop synchronization (based on the
> IEEE 1588 standard) between Network Capable Application Processor
> (NCAP) specified in the IEEE 1451.0 standard and IEEE
> 1451.5--Bluetooth, IEEE 1451.5-ZigBee, or IEEE 1451.5-802.15.4
> Wireless Transducer Interface Module (WTIM) specified in the IEEE
> 1451.5 standard. Proposals submitted under this subtopic may address
> access to NIST staff. NIST staff is willing to work collaboratively
> with the awardee(s) to help with the evaluation of the operating
> parameters, but will not be involved in the design of the system. A
> successful Phase 1 awardee would deliver to NIST a prototype IEEE 1451
> wireless sensor network consisting of at least one NCAP, two or more
> WTIMs, and appropriate sensors and actuators described above
> integrated with the IEEE 1588 time synchronization protocol and
> accurate time stamping that demonstrates the feasibility of the
> technology. A successful Phase 2 awardee would deliver to NIST a fully
> developed low-cost prototype IEEE 1451 wireless sensor network
> integrated with IEEE 1588 time synchronization capability with two or
> more NCAPs and six or more WTIMs equipped with appropriate sensors and
> actuators for demonstrating synchronicity of real-time sensor data
> suitable for manufacturing system operations.
>
> Establishing the precise time that a particular observation or
> measurement is made in sensor networks is of crucial importance. For
> instance, when raw sensor data is fused from multiple sources, it is
> imperative that the data was generated at the exact same moment when
> the event occurred. Thus it is important to synchronize the time of
> sensor nodes for sensor data fusion. It is possible to integrate the
> IEEE 1451 and the IEEE 1588 standards for distributed and synchronized
> measurement and control applications using this model. An IEEE 1451
> Network Capable Application Processor (NCAP) uses a boundary (master)
> clock with one or more PTP ports; an IEEE 1451 Transducer Interface
> Module (TIM) uses an ordinary (slave) clock with one port. So a number
> of TIMs can synchronize with the NCAP to implement synchronized and
> distributed measurement and control. We have developed the
> object-oriented model for the IEEE 1588D2.1. The model has been used
> to produce C++ source codes, and create a C++ library for the IEEE
> 1588 standard. Using this object-oriented model, the development time
> of IEEE 1588 applications can be reduced dramatically. This model can
> also be used to explore time synchronization of wireless sensor
> networks.

References:

> 1\. IEEE P1451.0D8.0, Draft Standard for a Smart Transducer Interface
> for Sensors and Actuators--Common Functions, Communication Protocols,
> and Transducer Electronic Data Sheet (TEDS) Formats.
>
> 2\. IEEE P1451.5D10.8, Draft Standard for a Smart Transducer Interface
> for Sensors and Actuators--Wireless Communication and Transducer
> Electronic Data Sheet (TEDS) Formats.
>
> 3\. IEEE P1588D2.1, Draft Standard for a Precision Clock
> Synchronization Protocol for Networked Measurement and Control
> Systems. Copy can be obtained from
> [**http://www.IEEE.org**](http://www.IEEE.org/).
>
> 4\. Kang Lee, Eugene Song, "Object-oriented Model for IEEE 1588
> Standard," 2007 International IEEE Symposium on Precision Clock
> Synchronization (ISPCS) for Measurement, Control and Communication,
> Vienna, Austria, Oct 1-3, 2007.

[]{#book9_05 .anchor}**9.05 [Microelectronics](#book9_06)
Manufacturing**

**9.05.1-1.R Multiple Contact Nano-Probes for GHz to THz Electrical and
Optical Characterization**

> Physical probe stations to contact and electrically characterize
> microelectronics devices have been a critical tool for controlling
> microelectronics manufacturing. These probe stations contain multiple
> independent probes and use optical microscopes to guide probe
> placement with micrometer accuracy. This type of probe station is
> limited by the spatial resolution of the optical microscope, the size
> of the probes, how close two probes can be placed with respect to each
> other, the lack of feedback between the probe and the sample, and the
> general requirement of fabricated metallic probe pad structures.
> Nanoscale structures of interest to NIST, such as silicon and GaN
> nanowires, are in general not electrically contactable with a
> traditional probe station, but can be electrically contacted with an
> AFM probe. Measurements of the multiple-contact, electrical properties
> of nano-structures have required time-consuming and expensive
> fabrication of lithographic contacts and gates. Non-destructive
> methods to electrically contact and characterize nano-structures are a
> widely-recognized high priority need, and a critical measurement need
> for NIST nanoelectronic and nanofabrication related programs. The
> small size of nanostructures of interest and the general trend towards
> higher frequency operation of electronics, necessitates increasing the
> bandwidth of electrical measurements into the GHz frequency range.
>
> This subtopic seeks innovative methods to make multiple, independent,
> non-destructive electrical contacts to nano-structures. The system
> should have two components: 1) The probe system itself, and 2)
> Innovative techniques to measure small signal and high-frequency
> voltage, current, capacitance, and optically pumped electrical
> measurements. For the probe system, a system with multiple AFM like
> probes is one possibility. The system should ideally contain at least
> four independently controllable probes (to enable 3-probe transistor
> like measurements and 4-probe Kelvin type measurements). Probe
> spacings as close as 10's of nanometers are desirable, though systems
> with lesser (\~ 200 nm spacing) would be useful. Probes should be able
> to hold their position within \~10 nm for times useful for an
> electrical measurement (at least a few minutes). It is desirable to be
> able to pass electrical signals with frequencies to the THz range
> through the probes and the nanostructures under test.
>
> The secondary parts of the system are innovative methods of
> integrating the desired electrical measurements into the probes. For
> example, quantitative (as opposed to relative) capacitance
> measurements in the attto-Farad range would be desirable. The ability
> to quantitatively apply strain to a nanowire structure with a single
> probe, and development of probe tips from materials with lower work
> functions (like Ti, Al) for low resistivity ohmic contacts are also
> desirable. Proposals submitted under this subtopic may address access
> to NIST facilities. The awardee(s) will work closely with NIST staff
> members who are developing various nanoelectronic devices, including
> nanowires, to help define the probe positioning and electrical
> measurement constraints.
>
> Systems with controlled atmosphere (nitrogen or argon) and humidity,
> or in an ultra-high vacuum chamber, would be more useful than an
> atmospheric only system. Ability to control sample temperature and an
> optical or scanning electron microscope for sample location would also
> be desirable features.
>
> A successful Phase 1 system should demonstrate three probe contacts to
> nanostructures with probe spacings less than that available from any
> traditional probe station, including: 1) Three electrical contacts to
> a horizontal nanowire structure 5 micrometer long and 100 nm in
> diameter; 2) Measurement of the "transistor-like" properties of this
> nanostructure, i.e. I-V through the long dimension, while applying a
> independent "gate" voltage with the third probe, 3) Useful electrical
> contact to the top of a vertical nanowire structure, 4) current,
> voltage, and capacitance measurements using two or more probes useful
> for measuring the transport properties of nanostructures, 5)
> Demonstration of successful measurements above 1 GHz, and 6)
> Assessment of the needs and limitations for atto-capacitance
> measurements, logarithmic current, pico-voltage and pico current
> measurements on nanostructures using the demonstrated probe system.
>
> Phase 2 would include the construction and testing of a prototype
> system with cooperation of the NIST staff. The Phase 2 system should
> improve probe separation beyond the current state of the art towards a
> goal of 10 nm, improve probe stability, and demonstrate four probe
> "Kelvin" measurements on nanostructures. The Phase 2 system should
> also include instrumentation for electrical measurements specifically
> using the probe system that have been optimized to control and
> minimize, noise, stray signals, and optical interference. This may
> include custom instrumentation for attoFarad capacitance measurements,
> scanning Kelvin force microscopy, logarithmic current, pico voltage,
> and pico current measurements to the THz range as determined to be
> desirable in Phase 1. Work on probe work function engineering and use
> of a probe for applying strain to a device under test could also be
> included in Phase 2.

**9.05.2-1.R Massively Parallel High Temperature Probe Card for
Wafer-Level Reliability Testing**

> Several major U.S. semiconductor companies recently announced that the
> 45 nm technology node will incorporated a metal oxide gate dielectric
> to replace conventional silicon dioxide. This change is a necessity to
> circumvent excessive leakage current through silicon dioxide films as
> they are thinned to facilitate transistor scaling. Metal oxide films
> have a larger dielectric constant allowing them to be thicker (and
> orders of magnitude less leakage current) and still possess the
> necessary capacitance for proper circuit operation. Comprehensive
> studies of the long-term stability and reliability of advanced metal
> oxide gate dielectrics have yet to be described in the scientific
> literature. Such studies are required by industry to predict product
> lifetime and specify nominal operating conditions. Long-term
> reliability testing can be very costly since large sample sizes
> (typically thousands) are required to reduce statistical uncertainty.
> The samples are packaged and placed in ovens at high temperatures to
> accelerating aging and eventual failure. There are significant costs
> associated with packaging and the high temperature materials required
> for the test fixtures and wiring. A significant savings can be
> realized if the devices can be tested at the wafer-level, where they
> need not be diced, packaged, and inserted into costly high temperature
> test fixtures and ovens. In this case a wafer-size probe card that can
> simultaneously contact several thousand devices and be able to
> withstand high testing temperatures would revolutionize product
> reliability qualification.
>
> The Advanced MOS Characterization and Reliability Project is actively
> working with several major US semiconductor companies to develop
> reliability characterization methods and physical models to predict
> time-dependent dielectric breakdown in advanced gate dielectric
> materials. Currently, NIST can only test a few tens of devices
> simultaneously at the wafer-level to obtain electrical and reliability
> parameters. This process is tedious and inhibits the ability to gather
> a significant statistical sample size. Therefore, NIST desires a high
> temperature probe-card that will allow the testing of several thousand
> devices simultaneously and allow the easy replacement of individual
> probes in event they are damaged. In Phase 1, NIST staff will assist
> the awardee(s) to complete a feasibility study of fabricating the
> probe card including engineering of the interconnect system to allow
> electrical connections between each probe and instrumentation existing
> in NIST facilities.
>
> Phase 2 would include the construction and testing of a prototype
> having one thousand probes. The Phase 2 prototype will be tested and
> characterized on a NIST probe station at test temperatures up to 400
> ºC with the cooperation of the NIST staff. The thermal stability and
> planarity of the card will be evaluated over long test times. Finally,
> reliability data will be collected using the card on an eight inch
> wafer.

[]{#book9_06 .anchor}**9.06 [Micro- and Nano-fabrication](#book9_08) and
Micromaching**

**9.06.1-5.R Elevated Temperature Quartz Crystal Microbalances for
Nanoanalysis**

> Novel nanoparticles form the basis for future nanoelectronics,
> nanodiagnostics, and drug delivery platforms. Application development
> is progressing rapidly despite continued concerns regarding material
> purity and consistency. These issues are particularly important for
> carbon nanotube materials, as many different carbon-containing species
> can be produced under similar thermodynamic conditions. Subtle changes
> in these conditions can lead to substantial differences in material
> composition and performance. As a result, methods are needed to
> quickly assess nanomaterial quality and homogeneity.
>
> Quartz crystal microbalances (QCMs) offer significant promise for
> characterization of such nanomaterials, including understanding
> composition, surface reactivity and decomposition/degradation in
> different chemical environments. Currently, however, most QCM devices
> are operated at or near ambient temperature conditions to avoid
> measurement error. We seek proposals for new fixtures and
> instrumentation that enable elevated temperature (100 ºC and above)
> operation of QCMs in controlled fluid environments. As sensitivity is
> critical due to the small volumes of nanomaterials envisioned for
> analysis, equilibration of temperature prior to measurement is highly
> desired. Ease of application of the test material (e.g., via drop
> casting), rapid analysis of results, and the potential for either
> re-use (or ease of replacement) of the QCM are important metrics for
> future adoption of the approach in nanomaterial analysis.
>
> Temperature ranges of interest include: 25-100 ºC for chemical
> degradation studies; 100-250 ºC for surface reactivity studies; and
> 100-600 ºC for comprehensive decomposition studies. Acquisition of
> data in temperature increments of 1 °C is required, with 0.25°C
> increments preferred.

Phase 1 Plan

> Awardee will design a QCM fixture capable of operating at elevated
> temperatures of at least 100 °C (preferably 250 °C). The design will
> take into account potential sources of measurement uncertainty and
> work toward reducing error to the maximum extent possible (e.g.,
> reducing thermal fluctuations to ensure equilibrium). The awardee will
> fabricate a prototype of this fixture and demonstrate operation at
> temperature. Demonstration experiments should include evaluation of
> chemical changes in a nanostructured thin film deposited on a QCM
> surface. NIST can provide such coatings if desired; however, the
> awardee can consider a range of different applications and select
> demonstration materials of their own. The awardee will provide data
> from these demonstration experiments to NIST and discuss with NIST
> modifications to the fixture to increase the temperature limit and
> improve data collection. The Awardee will have access to NIST
> facilities during the course of the SBIR Phase 1 to the extent NIST
> deems appropriate, including the ability to perform comparative
> measurements using conventional thermal analysis equipment. The
> Awardee will provide NIST with an assessment of feasibility for
> operation at 250 °C at the completion of Phase 1, as well as
> recommendations for extending the temperature range to 600 °C.

Phase 2 Plan

> If Phase 1 successfully demonstrates elevated temperature operation of
> the QCM, Phase 2 will consist of the Awardee constructing a prototype
> instrument (including software interface) capable of analyzing
> chemical modifications in nanomaterials at elevated temperatures. This
> work will consist of two parallel paths: (1) redesign of the fixture
> for operation to 600 °C including assessment of crystal type; and (2)
> integration of the fixture into an instrument for rapid data
> acquisition. The Awardee will again have access to NIST equipment of
> comparative analysis using conventional instrumentation. The Awardee
> will again conduct key demonstration experiments using a range of
> material coatings. At the completion of the Phase 2 project, the
> Awardee will provide NIST with a prototype instrument for in-house
> testing.

**9.06.2-5.R Multiple Polytype SiC Nanowire Fabrication Process and
Equipment Development**

> Semiconductor nanowires (NWs) offer revolutionary applications for
> photonics (LEDs, lasers), electronics (field-effect transistors),
> chemical/biological sensors, and thermoelectrics (micro/nano-coolers,
> power generators). One of the key technical obstacles for realizing
> commercial nanowire-based devices is the lack of ability to fabricate
> NWs with controlled morphology, orientation, polytype, composition,
> doping concentration, and defect density.
>
> NIST is developing methodologies for characterization of semiconductor
> NWs, fabrication of nanowire-based device structures, and is
> standardizing experimental practices for nanowire metrology. We have
> identified silicon carbide, SiC, as of the key compound
> semiconductors, which will enable us to broadly address the metrology
> challenges and the key technology applications envisioned. Its
> superior biocompatibility, lower auto-fluorescence, and superior
> chemical inertness compared to Si offers exciting opportunities for
> fabricating high-performance chemical and biological sensors. At
> present, NIST is developing nanoscale characterization methods to
> unambiguously distinguish between the different SiC polytypes (such as
> 3C-, 2H-, 4H-, 6H-) in nanowire form.
>
> We are requesting proposals to develop a manufacturing process and
> equipment for high yield fabrication of different polytypes of SiC
> nanowires with controlled morphology, orientation, doping
> concentration, and defects. The manufacturing process(es)/systems
> should be based on either PVD (physical vapor deposition) or CVD
> (chemical vapor deposition) and should have
> ambient/pressure/temperature controllable capabilities allowing
> fabrication of the SiC NWs with defined morphological (NW length,
> diameter, orientation), structural (certain polytypes), and electronic
> (n- and p-doped) properties.
>
> It is recommended that the nanowire manufacturing process and
> equipment be flexible, modular, multi-purpose and scalable, allowing
> the technology to be extended to commercial applications. One of the
> key goals of NIST SBIR program is to render the small business with
> technology that could be commercialized beyond NIST needs.
>
> Phase 1 results are expected to demonstrate the feasibility of the
> newly developed SiC nanowire manufacturing process. At the end of
> Phase 1, the awardee, using the developed NW manufacturing process,
> will deliver to NIST SiC NW samples of at-least 2 different polytypes
> and with reproducible dimensions (length and diameter). The NW samples
> will be evaluated and certified by NIST. For Phase 2, the awardee will
> scale up, and refine the NW manufacturing system and process according
> to NIST's specification. At the end of Phase 2, the awardee will
> manufacture and deliver to NIST the scaled-up manufacturing system
> with in-situ process monitoring capabilities (to be specified after
> successful completion of Phase 1).
>
> NIST intends to communicate with the awardee throughout the project
> providing technical advice on the manufacturing process development.
> To ensure that the specifications are met, appropriate access to NIST
> laboratory space and equipment will be provided to the awardee.

[]{#book9_07 .anchor}**9.07 [Optics](#book9_10) and Optical Technology**

**9.07.1-1.R 3D Laser Interferometer for Nanometrology**

> The resistance unit and the capacitance unit are currently realized at
> NIST through a calculable capacitor. The calculable capacitor is a
> unique high accuracy instrument that directly links the capacitance
> unit to the mechanical unit of length. The NIST calculable capacitor
> is the primary standard in the US for the SI measurements of impedance
> and resistance, and it requires the most precise length measurement
> techniques. NIST is determined to maintain the leadership position in
> capacitance metrology and is currently conducting research to develop
> an automated calculable capacitor employing a tunable-laser-based
> Fabry-Perot interferometer \[1\] that was previously used in the NIST
> Atomic Displacement Metrology project. The absolute uncertainty of
> this best-in-the-world interferometer for 1D linear translation
> measurements is below 10 pm, allowing it to potentially reduce the
> size of the calculable capacitor by two orders of magnitude, in
> addition to automation enabled by the tunable laser. The top remaining
> technical challenge for this project is to add angular control and
> encoding mechanisms to realize and maintain alignment between the
> electrical axis of the capacitor and the optical axis of the
> interferometer within 0.1 arc-second.
>
> This solicitation is seeking proposals for developing a 3D laser
> interferometer, allowing simultaneous measurements of 1D linear
> translation and 2D angular deflection in pitch and yaw, using only one
> laser beam and a small flat mirror target. The required linear
> displacement resolution and uncertainty is 0.1 nm, covering a working
> range from 18 cm to 23 cm. The angular range should cover +/- 50
> arc-seconds with a resolution and uncertainty of 0.1 arc-second. The
> frequency range of the tunable laser should be at least 1 GHz. The
> need for this type of integrated 3D laser interferometer is also
> increasing in semiconductor manufacturing and the fabrications of nano
> devices.
>
> The awardee(s) will work closely with NIST staff members who are
> developing an automated calculable capacitor based on a tunable laser
> Fabry-Perot interferometer. During Phase 1, the awardee(s) will be
> expected to provide a survey of interferometry techniques that are
> best suited to integrate 1D linear translation measurement with 2D
> angular control and measurement in pitch and yaw, and should
> demonstrate a proof-of-concept implementation of a 3D laser
> interferometer. In Phase 2, a functioning system of a 3D laser
> interferometer will be delivered to NIST for its retention.
>
> Collaboration with NIST will be limited to NIST keeping awardee(s)
> informed of any technical research at NIST that could impact the
> research and development of the 3D interferometer.
>
> References:
>
> 1\. John R. Lawall, "Fabry--Perot metrology for displacements up to 50
> mm," J. Opt. Soc. Am. A/Vol. 22, No. 12, 2786(2005).

**9.07.2-1.R Perfect Quantum Efficiency Matched Pair Photodiodes**

> In order to measure squeezed light by homodyne detection and quantum
> state tomography, the loss of the detection system must be very low. A
> strongly squeezed state is highly susceptible to loss. For example, a
> 10dB squeezed state will be degraded to 9.3dB (15% loss), when only
> two percent loss is present in the detection system. Part of our
> time-domain homodyne detection system includes two matched
> photodiodes. Currently available high-speed photodiodes offer a
> quantum efficiency of \~95% at our wavelength of interest (860nm),
> which reduces a 10dB squeezed state to 8.4dB (30% loss). In order to
> improve the sensitivity of our setup to high squeezing, we are looking
> for pairs of matched photodiodes with almost perfect (\>99%) quantum
> efficiency at 860 nm. The speed requirement is \>100 MHz at 50Ώ output
> impedance, and the dark current must be lower than 0.01 nA. The
> matching must achieved in both the rise- and decay- time of the two
> photodiodes, as almost perfect subtraction of the two individual
> signals is needed. The maximum allowable subtraction mismatch may not
> exceed 0.1% of the individual photodiode responses. The photodiodes
> will be utilized in conjunction with a femtosecond laser system.
> Therefore, the 99% efficiency has to be achieved with laser pulse
> energies of up to 1 nJ. Packaging of the photodiodes is preferably in
> a TO-5 package. The minimum active area must be no smaller than
> 0.3mm^2^.
>
> In Phase 1, five prototype matched pairs photodiodes that demonstrate
> the required technology will be delivered to NIST. For Phase 2, NIST
> is willing to work collaboratively with the awardee to help with
> evaluation of the specified parameters. In addition, Phase 2
> development will include extending the operating wavelength of the
> high quantum-efficiency photodiodes to other visible and infrared
> wavelengths. Other Phase 2 development may include increasing the
> speed of the photodiode or increasing the active area of the
> photodiodes, while maintaining the other specifications.

**9.07.3-1.R Low-Loss in-Fiber Optical filter at 860 nm**

> In quantum optics experiments, optical filters are often used to
> separate the desired photons for an experiment from all other
> background light. However, most filters have significant loss even in
> the passband of the filter, which can degrade quantum states and can
> increase acquisition times. For Phase 1, NIST seeks the design and
> construction (and delivery of prototypes) of very low-loss, in-fiber,
> optical filters for 860 nm with the following specifications:
>
> • Center wavelength of transmission = 860 nm\
> • Bandwidth (of passband) = 0.2 nm FWHM\
> • Transmission at peak wavelength \> 95%\
> • Insertion loss \< 0.22 dB (equivalently)\
> • Out-of-band rejection \>20 dB from 750-1000 nm\
> • Single-mode fiber at 860 nm
>
> In Phase 1, ten prototype filters which demonstrate the required
> technology will be delivered to NIST. For Phase 2, NIST is willing to
> work collaboratively with the awardee to help with evaluation of the
> specified parameters. In addition, Phase 2 development will include
> extending the center wavelength of transmission to a variety of
> wavelengths between 800-1600 nm, and extending the bandwidth
> specification to a range of narrower and broader bandwidths.

**9.07.4-3.R High Power, Mid-Infrared Fiber Supercontinuum Light
Source**

> In the mid-90s, ultrafast lasers and microstructured optical fibers
> were incorporated into efficient schemes for generating broadband
> visible light, designated supercontinuum (SC) radiation. These SC
> sources combined the brightness of lasers with the broad bandwidth
> associated with incandescent sources. This technology has been
> exploited commercially for generation of visible and near-infrared
> (IR) SC radiation. Use of these commercial sources for chemical
> analysis is a significant new application area, particular in near-IR
> absorption spectroscopy. A promising new direction for SC sources in
> the chemical analysis arena is extension to the mid-IR spectral
> region, wherein the fundamental vibrational transitions of molecules
> are probed, leading to significant enhancements in sensitivity and
> chemical specificity. A mid-IR SC source would represent a major
> advance over the thermal sources traditionally used in this spectral
> region. A mid-IR SC source will likely find applications in areas as
> diverse as high spatial resolution IR microscopy, long pathlength gas
> spectroscopy for stand-off detection, and IR countermeasures. The key
> challenge in extending SC sources to the mid-IR is the availability of
> low-loss fiber materials, as propagation in conventional glass fibers
> is limited by material absorption. Significant progress has recently
> been reported for generation of SC radiation out to 4.5 um with
> fluoride glass fibers, but there has been little progress reported in
> the 4.5-12 um spectral region.
>
> NIST seeks the design, construction, and delivery of a prototype
> fiber-based, mid-IR SC radiation source operable in the 4.5-12 um
> spectral region with a minimum integrated power of 100 mW. This source
> should have a minimum spectral bandwidth of 800 cm-1 and a minimum
> power per unit bandwidth of 0.125 mW/cm-1 within the 4.5-12 um
> spectral window.
>
> Phase 1 of this research should demonstrate the feasibility of the
> prototype design, through testing and/or simulation of key source
> components including candidate fiber materials and pump lasers.
>
> Phase 2 includes manufacture, testing and delivery of a prototype
> source meeting the above specifications to NIST for its retention.

**9.07.5-4.R Compact, Frequency-Stable, and Efficient High-Power Laser
Sources**

> This subtopic seeks proposals for compact, frequency stable, reliable
> and efficient high power laser sources to replace existing, more
> complicated, service intensive and less efficient sources for several
> key experiments. Such sources would also immediately benefit other
> applications within NIST and US industry.
>
> NIST has pressing needs for compact and reliable laser sources for
> basic standards and metrology applications, in particular atomic
> clocks. A wide range of wavelengths is necessary, so a technology that
> can fulfill our varied requirements would most probably also address
> many other needs, such as hazardous materials detection. We are most
> interested in developing general technologies that could be applied to
> a number of different wavelengths and applications. Therefore, the
> SBIR proposal should address realization of as many of the sources
> listed at the end of this proposal as possible. Preference will be
> given to simple, power-efficient sources.
>
> Diode pumped semiconductor lasers have been successfully developed,
> but typically for specific wavelengths with a large market in mind.
> One example is a commercially available system at 488 nm to replace
> Argon-ion lasers. The aim of this SBIR proposal is to develop any
> promising technology that could be tailored to niche applications.
> Priority will be given to proposals that demonstrate wide flexibility.
>
> Phase 1 should result in a proof-of-principle demonstration of the
> proposed technology by developing a source with at least one of the
> set of characteristics listed below---with more than one being better.
> Proposals will be evaluated on the versatility of the approach, the
> expected frequency stability and spectral characteristics, the power
> output and stability, cleanliness of the spatial mode and tuning
> bandwidth. Secondary merits will be prospects for long term reliable
> operation, cost and power scalability. Phase 2, if awarded, would
> further develop the technology for commercialization and additional
> applications from the list. At the conclusion of Phase 2, the awardee
> would provide a working system to NIST.
>
> NIST is willing to work collaboratively with the awardees to help with
> evaluation and optimization of devices.

Applications of interest are:

> 1\) Laser for precision spectroscopy of neutral Yb:\
> Wavelength: 578 nm\
> Output power: \> 50 mW\
> Single longitudinal mode. TEM00 transverse mode\
> Bandwidth: as narrow as possible, definitely \< 1 MHz\
> Tunability: +/- 1 nm
>
> 2\) Laser for photoionization of neutral Mg:\
> Wavelength: 570 nm (to be doubled to 285 nm)\
> Output power: \> 1 W\
> Single longitudinal mode. TEM00 transverse mode\
> Bandwidth: \< 10 MHz, compatible with a resonant doubling stage\
> Tunability: +/- 1 nm
>
> 3\) Laser for Raman spectroscopy of ionized Mg:\
> Wavelength: 560 nm (to be doubled to 280 nm)\
> Output power: 1 W to 10 W\
> Single longitudinal mode. TEM00 transverse mode\
> Bandwidth: \< 10 MHz, compatible with a resonant doubling stage\
> Tunability: +/- 1 nm
>
> 4\) Laser for photoionization of neutral Be:\
> Wavelength: 470 nm (to be doubled to 235 nm)\
> Output power: \> 1 W\
> Single longitudinal mode. TEM00 transverse mode\
> Bandwidth: \< 10 MHz, compatible with a resonant doubling stage\
> Tunability: +/- 1 nm
>
> 5\) Laser for precision spectroscopy of ionized Hg:\
> Wavelength: 563 nm (to be doubled to 281.5 nm)\
> Output power: \> 0.5 W\
> Single longitudinal mode. TEM00 transverse mode\
> Bandwidth: \< 1 MHz, compatible with a resonant doubling stage\
> Tunability: +/- 1 nm
>
> 6\) Laser for precision spectroscopy of ionized Al:\
> Wavelength: 534 nm (to be doubled to 267 nm)\
> Output power: 0.5 W to 2 W\
> Single longitudinal mode. TEM00 transverse mode\
> Bandwidth: \< 1 MHz, compatible with a resonant doubling stage\
> Tunability: +/- 1 nm
>
> 7\) Laser for Raman spectroscopy of ionized Be:\
> Wavelength: 626 nm (to be doubled to 313 nm)\
> Output power: 1 W to 10 W\
> Single longitudinal mode. TEM00 transverse mode\
> Bandwidth: \< 10 MHz, compatible with a resonant doubling stage\
> Tunability: +/- 1 nm

**9.07.6-4.R Shortwave Infrared Camera for Thermal Imaging**

> We are seeking development of a shortwave-infrared camera in a
> wavelength band, and with sensitivity (low noise) characteristics, not
> yet available. The camera should operate in the infrared wavelength
> region of 2.0 µm to 2.5 µm, which can be used for the detection of
> thermal radiation from near-room-temperature objects. Detectors with a
> band-gap cutoff wavelength of 2.5 µm to 2.8 µm are especially suited
> for the detection of room-temperature and hotter objects since the
> contaminating Planck radiation from the background will be reduced by
> the cutoff of the detector sensitivity. NIST has demonstrated this
> with single channel detectors \[Proceedings of the SPIE, Volume 6297,
> pp. 629703 (2006)\]; we seek to extend this technology to imagers.
>
> The camera must have a focal plane array of at least 320 × 256 pixels,
> constructed using shortwave infrared detectors with detectivity, D\*,
> of at least 4×1013 cm Hz1/2/W. The performance must be near the
> background-limited performance at 295 K, and the camera must
> demonstrate thermal imaging of the human face in the absence of any
> external radiation. The increase in the D\* can be achieved with
> thermo-electric cooling and by material selection of the focal plane
> array.
>
> In Phase 1, the awardee must show the feasibility of a camera by
> demonstrating a focal plane array with the necessary characteristics
> and a complete engineering plan for camera development. At the end of
> Phase 2, the awardee will provide one infrared camera and the
> operating software to NIST, which will then become the property of
> NIST. Though not necessary, NIST would consider working
> collaboratively with the awardee to help with evaluation of the
> operating parameters.

**9.07.7-4.R Broadband Reflective Optical Coatings with Tailored
Dispersion**

> For research on femtosecond-laser based optical frequency metrology,
> spectroscopy and waveform generation, NIST requires broadband,
> dielectric-coated laser mirrors with user-designed reflective phase
> shift. For femtosecond laser applications, such mirrors must be
> produced with appropriate reflective phase shift to compensate the
> dispersion of materials (optics, gain media, etc.) inside the laser
> cavity, while at the same time maintaining high reflectivity. These
> mirrors have been referred to as \"chirped-mirrors\" because the
> thickness of the constituent dielectric layers varies with penetration
> depth into the mirror. In other applications, such as broadband
> optical filter and enhancement cavities, the design might require very
> low reflective phase-shift over the broadest possible bandwidth. In
> all such cases, precise control of the fabrication process is an
> important factor in the production of the desired reflective phase
> shift.
>
> Desired requirements for the resulting mirrors on ¼\" -- 1\"
> (diameter) substrates include:
>
> \- Reflectivity of ≥99.9% over bandwidths of 600-1200 nm. Similar
> reflectivity over the spectral range of 1100-1800 nm is also
> desirable\
> - Reflective phase shifts over the above spectral regions
> corresponding to group delay dispersions (GDD) ranging from 0 to -100
> fs2.\
> - Low absorptive and scattering loss (\<0.01%) in the coating.\
> - Pulsed damage thresholds approaching and exceeding 10 GW/cm2\
> - Accurate measurements of the reflectivity and reflective phase of
> the resulting mirrors
>
> It is recognized that such coatings are challenging to produce and the
> full range of the above requirements may not be met for a single
> coating. Thus, for phase 1, feasibility studies and prototype coating
> runs will be conducted to provide mirrors to NIST on 1\" and ½\"
> diameter fused silica substrates with the following target goals:
> Reflectivity ≥99.9% for 650-1100 nm, average GDD per reflection of -50
> fs2 ± 10 fs2 for 670-1050 nm, intrinsic loss \<0.01%. These goals are
> for angle of incidence \< 10 deg and the GDD goal may be achieved with
> pairs of mirrors.
>
> Phase 2, would then proceed with the development of a broader range of
> coating designs, coating processes and control, and final metrology.
> The outcome would be mirrors of specific use to key NIST projects.
>
> During the development, the awardee(s) would work closely with
> knowledgeable NIST staff members on coating design and evaluation of
> the mirror performance.

**9.07.8-4.R High-Resolution Solid Etalon Spectral Dispersers**

> For work related to precision laser-based spectroscopy, optical
> sensing, and optical waveform generation, NIST requires novel,
> high-resolution spectral dispersers based on solid etalons \[1-3\] or
> other approaches. Such solid etalons operate like other dispersive
> elements (e.g. gratings, prisms) in that various input colors are
> diffracted into different spatial directions. However, etalon-based
> spectral dispersers can provide exceptionally high angular dispersion
> in a single compact and robust element. In particular, we are
> interested in developing technologies that can extend the current
> state-of-the-art in terms of the following properties:
>
> \(1\) Efficiency: Maximum total throughput in the lowest diffracted
> order is needed, which includes both spectral coverage and power
> efficiency. The input fields will be a laser source (P \< 2 W) with
> broad bandwidths and well-defined spatial mode.
>
> \(2\) Spectral resolution and filter response: Spectral resolutions of
> λ/∆λ \~ 300,000 (measured at -3 dB) have been demonstrated. Techniques
> aimed at further improving this resolution are needed. Moreover,
> approaches to sharpening the shape of the spectral response function
> of the disperser will be critical for some applications in which
> adjacent frequencies must be very cleanly separated.
>
> \(3\) Optical bandwidth: The spectral disperser should be functional
> over fractional spectral bandwidths ∆υ/υ greater than 10%, and
> techniques to extend the usable fractional bandwidth to 50% would be
> valuable.
>
> \(4\) Wavelength regime: Efforts should focus on development at the
> 1400 nm to 1800 nm regime as well as the 600 nm to 1000 nm regime.
>
> In Phase 1, prototype spectral dispersers should be developed and
> delivered for proof-of-principle demonstrations. During development,
> the awardee could work closely with knowledgeable NIST staff members
> to evaluate device performance. Development in Phase 2 (if awarded)
> would produce advanced dispersers (covering multiple wavelengths and
> bandwidths) that would be delivered to NIST for incorporation into a
> functional crossed-dispersion spectrometer (as described in Refs
> \[2-3\]) for applications in spectroscopy and waveform generation.

References:

1\. M. Shirasaki, Opt. Lett. 21, 366 (1996).

2\. S. Xiao, A. M. Weiner, Opt. Express 12, 2895 (2004).

3\. S. Diddams, L. Hollberg, V. Mbele, Nature 445, 627 (2007).

**9.07.9-4.R High-Bandwidth, Low-Noise Photodetectors for Precise
Timing**

> Optical systems have several advantages over electronics for
> high-precision timing, including: enormous optical bandwidths,
> low-loss signal transmission, and optical resonances with extremely
> high quality factors (Q \< 10^14^). Stable optical frequency
> references combined with femtosecond laser frequency combs now enable
> unprecedented timing precision. However, most demanding applications
> of precise timing require electronic signals, not optical pulses. When
> the optical signals are detected and coupled to electronics, the
> timing precision is typically degraded by a factor of 100 to 1000.
>
> To address these issues, NIST has requirements for advanced
> photodetectors that can achieve the highest possible timing precision
> in detecting ultra-short pulses from mode-locked Ti:sapphire lasers.
> The principal issues that limit the performance achieved with
> commercial photodetectors are: detector saturation, nonlinearities,
> amplitude-to-phase coupling, and noise divergence at low frequencies
> (1/f like). We measure amplitude-to-phase coupling coefficients \<5 ps
> delay for 1 mA change in average detected photocurrent. The low
> frequency divergence is not well characterized or understood.
>
> Goals of Phase 1 are to develop advanced photodetectors that
> substantially reduce the amplitude to group-delay distortions and low
> frequency (1/f) noise that presently limit timing precision. In
> addition to the advanced designs for the photodetectors, attention
> must be paid to manufacturing and device integration/packaging issues
> that affect timing precision. The parameter ranges of interest and
> other basic requirements are: wavelength 800 nm to 1000 nm, pulse
> repetition frequencies from 1 GHz to 10 GHz, optical pulse widths 30
> fs to 1 ps, average optical powers from 1 mW to 100 mW, average
> photocurrents 1 mA to 20 mA (or more), and detector bandwidth \>15
> GHz.
>
> This effort requires both design and manufacturing aspects, and a
> minimum of three devices would be delivered to NIST in Phase 1 for
> performance evaluation. Applications of these devices would include:
> low timing jitter (in the fs range) sources, microwave signal
> generation with ultra-low phase noise, and optical links for
> RF/microwave transmission. NIST will work with awardees to evaluate
> detector performance.
>
> If successful, Phase 2 could extend the development to higher
> photocurrents, higher frequencies, reduced distortion, and, if
> feasible, other wavelengths (500 nm to 900 nm, 1000 nm to 1600 nm)
> would also be of interest.

References:

> J.J. McFerran et al., Low noise synthesis of microwave signals from an
> optical source Electron. Lett. 41 (2005).
>
> E.N. Ivanov, S.A. Diddams, and L. Hollberg, Study of Excess Noise
> Associated with Demodulation of Ultra-Short Infrared Pulses, IEEE T.
> Ultrason. Ferr. 52 (2005).
>
> E.N. Ivanov, et al., Noise Properties of Microwave Signals Synthesized
> with Femtosecond Lasers, Proc. 2005 Joint Mt. IEEE Intl. Freq. Control
> Symp. and PTTI (2005).

[]{#book9_08 .anchor}**9.08 [Technologies](#book9_11) to Enhance Fire
Safety**

**9.08.1-6.R Innovative Fire Measurements**

> NIST is currently conducting research in real-scale compartment fires.
> Innovative measurement techniques are needed to characterize aspects
> of the transient structure of the fire. Parameters of interest
> include, but are not limited to, the concentrations of key gas phase
> species, soot, velocity, heat flux, and temperature. Preference will
> be given to innovative techniques that emphasize understanding of the
> entire dynamic field, that is, information across an entire plane or
> volume, or for many points simultaneously. A robust device is needed,
> which can function when subjected to real-scale fire conditions.
>
> Phase 1 of the research should include a detailed design and
> demonstrate the feasibility of the instrument or technique.
> Measurement accuracy and spatial resolution is important in fire
> measurements and an uncertainty analysis should be included as part of
> Phase 1. In Phase 2, a functioning prototype system will be delivered
> to NIST for possible testing under fire conditions. NIST will retain
> ownership of the prototype.

**9.08.2-6.R Barrier Fabrics for Fire Safe Furniture and Mattresses**

> Current barrier fabrics based on organic polymers (poly acrilonitrile
> (PAN), cotton, rayon, novoloid) function by self-extinguishing due to
> flame retardant coatings. However, this approach often fails due to
> poor resistance to exposure to water. Another mechanism is due to
> fiber pyrolysis during a fire which leaves behind a carbonaceous
> fabric; this protects underlying flammable materials such as foam and
> fibers. This later mechanism does not suffer from water exposure, but
> the char yields for the low cost polymers are not 100%, so as the
> polymer chars the fabric shrinks and this causes cracks in the carbon
> fabric that expose the underlying foam and allows ignition and fire
> growth. At high flux exposures this problem is more severe.
>
> New approaches to development of barrier fabrics are solicited.
> Potential topics may include application of nano-based flame
> retardants, new polymer, or high char-yield additives within the fiber
> or as a coating or as a blend with conventional fabrics. Careful
> consideration should be made as to the methods for material
> preparation, characterization and flammability property measurement
> when proposing a program for this subtopic.
>
> Phase 1 deliverable: The awardee should document through the results
> of pyrolysis experiments that candidate polymer fibers can produce
> large char residues. Cone calorimeter tests should be used to
> demonstrate improved flammability properties (e.g., reduced heat
> release rate and/or longer times to ignition) of the candidate polymer
> fiber.
>
> Phase 2 deliverable: The awardee should document the improved thermal
> stability and flammability properties of the barrier fabrics they have
> developed. Sufficient fabric materials should be provided to NIST at
> the end of the award period to allow follow-on testing.

**9.08.3-6.R Innovative Residential Fire Detection**

> Current residential smoke alarm technologies provide adequate warning
> in most fire scenarios. However, technological improvements are sought
> for a range of issues including: lack of high sensitivity to all
> fires, nuisance alarms, power requirements, maintenance, and occupant
> interference of operation (tampering, disabling or removing alarms).
> Some of these issues are interrelated, nuisance alarms and occupant
> interference, power requirements and maintenance.
>
> NIST is soliciting innovative technologies for residential fire
> detection that are economical and address the issues raised above.
> Research and patent literature is rich with fire detection technology
> solutions, which for one reason or another has never made a commercial
> impact. A unique combination of ideas may provide the innovation
> pathway to a viable product.
>
> NIST is willing to collaborate with the awardee to evaluate ideas and
> demonstrate feasibility. NIST will make available for use its fire
> emulator/detector evaluator (FE/DE) to test components or prototypes
> in Phase 1 and Phase 2. Go to
> [**http://smokealarm.nist.gov/**](http://smokealarm.nist.gov/) for
> NIST research on smoke alarms and descriptions of the (FE/DE).
>
> Phase 1 of this research should demonstrate the feasibility of
> innovative technologies to provide specific desired enhancements to
> residential smoke alarms. In Phase 2, a prototype will be designed and
> fabricated. Testing and evaluation of the prototype will be done with
> the cooperation of NIST staff.

[]{#book9_09 .anchor}**9.09 [X-ray System Technologies](#book9_14)**

**9.09.1-1.R Digital Pulse Processing for Multiplexed Microcalorimeter
Arrays**

> NIST has pioneered the development of arrays of cryogenic
> microcalorimeters for applications such as industrial x-ray materials
> analysis and gamma-ray nuclear materials analysis. Microcalorimeter
> sensors provide unmatched energy resolution and, when fabricated in an
> array, competitive count rates and collection areas. However,
> microcalorimeter arrays pose a significant signal processing challenge
> that is only partly addressed by NIST\'s unique time-domain SQUID
> multiplexer technology \[1\]. The interleaved data stream from the
> multiplexer must be split at room temperature into individual pixel
> streams and these streams must be filtered and then processed in real
> time for pulse height information.
>
> Presently, this processing can be done for small arrays using real
> time software. However, as the size and count rate of microcalorimeter
> arrays increases, a different approach is desirable.
>
> NIST seeks proposals to add real time digital pulse processing into
> the digital feedback circuitry of the time-domain SQUID multiplexer.
> This added functionality will enable a broad range of new applications
> and capabilities. First, it will allow real time spectroscopy with
> microcalorimeter arrays of a 1,000 or more pixels instead of the
> present limit of about 100. Second, it will allow real time
> spectroscopy with per pixel count rates in excess of 1 kHz instead of
> the present limit of about 100 Hz. The combination of larger arrays
> and higher pixel count rates will enable system count rates in the MHz
> range, thus making microcalorimeters uniquely powerful tools for
> materials analysis at intensely bright modern synchrotron facilities.
> In addition, the integration of pulse processing functionality
> directly into the feedback electronics is required for applications
> such as sounding rockets for X-ray astronomy where power and/or
> telemetry limitations make the use of a separate microprocessor for
> software pulse processing infeasible.
>
> The awardee will be expected to design and demonstrate digital signal
> processors (DSPs) that are able to demultiplex data from the NIST
> multiplexer. The DSPs must also trigger in response to pulses, filter
> the pulse records, and extract pulse height information with spectral
> resolution of roughly one part in two thousand. DSP algorithms to
> compensate for the pulse pileup inevitably present at high count rates
> are desirable. The DSPs should be integrated into a version of the
> digital feedback electronics. NIST will work closely with the awardee
> to transfer design information about the feedback electronics and to
> test prototypes and algorithms. The awardee should also demonstrate a
> software package that commands, receives and displays the spectral
> information produced by the DSPs. This package should include
> automatic calibration routines.

Milestones for the project are listed below:

Phase 1

> \- detailed design of a digital signal processor that can be
> integrated into NIST feedback electronics and that provides the
> demultiplexing and pulse processing functionality described above.
> Review meeting with NIST staff to discuss and evaluate design.
>
> \- validation of filtering and pulse height extraction routines on
> single pixel data provided by NIST

Phase 2 year 1

> \- construction and test of a prototype feedback board with on-board
> pulse processing

Phase 2 year 2

> \- construction, test, and delivery to NIST of two final feedback
> boards with on-board pulse processing.
>
> \- demonstration and delivery to NIST of a fully documented software
> package to calibrate and display output of pulse processing hardware.

References:

> 1\. C. D. Reintsema, J. Beyer, S. W. Nam, et al, 'Prototype system for
> superconducting quantum interference device multiplexing of
> large-format transition-edge sensor arrays', Rev. Sci . Instr. 74
> (2003) 4500.

**9.09.2-3.R Digital Signal Processing for 1 to 10 MHz X-ray Event
Streams**

> The recent emergence of the silicon drift detector (SDD), a form of
> energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDS), has made possible x-ray
> event streams with rates as high as 1 MHz to 10 MHz. A noticeable
> problem with existing digital signal processing techniques applied to
> SDD technology is the significant presence of coincidence peaks above
> the x-ray background. These coincidence peaks occur with similar
> peak-to-background as is seen with legitimate low concentration
> species present at concentrations in the range 0.001 to 0.01 mass
> fraction. In complex specimens with x-ray peaks arising from two or
> more elemental constituents present at concentrations above 0.1 mass
> fraction, the large number of coincidence peaks can occupy more than
> half of the available spectral regions between the high abundance
> peaks. These coincidence peaks lead to false identification of
> elements, and significant errors in quantification due to lost counts
> in the peaks of interest. NIST seeks advanced digital signal
> processing technique development to overcome this severe limitation to
> SDD application. Specifically, a phase 1 proof of concept
>
> In Phase 1, NIST is willing to work collaboratively with the awardee
> to help with evaluation of the operating parameters for a silicon
> drift detector energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer based upon
> commercial systems already installed and operating at NIST.
>
> In Phase 1, a proof of concept would show the capacity of a system to
> resolve and process a 1 MHz to 10 MHz signal from an SDD EDS with a
> factor of 10 reduction in coincidence counting (for example, the
> coincidence rejection pulse processing system achieves a factor of 10
> reduction in the Al+Al coincidence peak relative to Al parent (both
> intensities integrated over full width at half peak maximum) from pure
> aluminum with an output count rate of 500,000 counts per second
> compared to the spectrum measured without coincidence rejection).
>
> In Phase 2, a functioning system to implement coincidence rejection
> system (hardware and/or software) on commercial silicon drift detector
> energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry system at NIST will be delivered
> to NIST for its retention and ownership. This coincidence rejection
> pulse processing system integrates successfully with the commercial
> SDD spectrum collection and processing system so that the full
> functionality of the commercial analytical system can be utilized.