> FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
>
> **FUNDING OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT**
>
> ![](media/image1.png){width="1.375in" height="1.375in"}
>
> **Golden Field Office**
>
> **1617 Cole Blvd**
>
> **Golden, CO 80401-3393**
>
> **Research and Development of Fuel Cell Technology for the Hydrogen
> Economy**
>
> **Funding Opportunity Number: DE-PS36-06GO96017**
>
> **Announcement Type: Initial**
>
> **CFDA Number: 81.087**
>
> **Issue Date: 1/24/2006**
>
> **Letter of Intent Due Date: 2/28/06**
>
> **Pre-Application Due Date: Not Applicable**
>
> **Application Due Date: 04/05/06 at 8:00 PM Eastern Time**
>
> **NOTE: NEW REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANTS.GOV**
>
> **Where to Submit**
>
> Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov to be considered for
> award.
>
> **Registration Requirements**
>
> There are several one-time actions you must complete in order to
> submit an application through Grants.gov (e.g., obtain a Dun and
> Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number, register
> with the Central Contract Registry (CCR), register with the credential
> provider, and register with Grants.gov). See
> http://[www.grants.gov/GetStarted](http://www.grants.gov/GetStarted).
> Use the Grants.gov Organization Registration Checklist at
> <http://www.grants.gov/assets/OrganizationRegCheck.doc> to guide you
> through the process. Designating an E-Business Point of Contact (EBiz
> POC) and obtaining a special password called an MPIN are important
> steps in the CCR registration process. Applicants, who are not
> registered with CCR and Grants.gov, should allow at [least 14
> days]{.underline} to complete these requirements. It is suggested that
> the process be started as soon as possible.
>
> **Questions**
>
> Questions relating to the registration process, system requirements,
> how an application form works, or the submittal process must be
> directed to Grants.gov at 1-800-518-4726 or <support@grants.gov>. Part
> VII of this announcement explains how to submit other questions to the
> Department of Energy (DOE).
>
> **Application Receipt Notices**
>
> After an application is submitted, the Authorized Organization
> Representative (AOR) will receive a series of four e-mails. It is
> extremely important that the AOR [watch]{.underline} for and
> [save]{.underline} each of the emails. It may take up to two (2)
> business days from application submission to receipt of email Number
> 2. You will know that your application has reached DOE when the AOR
> receives email Number 4. You will need the Submission Receipt Number
> (email Number 1) to track a submission. The titles of the four e-mails
> are:
>
> Number 1 - Grants.gov Submission Receipt Number
>
> Number 2 - Grants.gov Submission Validation Receipt for Application
> Number
>
> Number 3 - Grants.gov Grantor Agency Retrieval Receipt for Application
> Number
>
> Number 4 - Grants.gov Agency Tracking Number Assignment for
> Application Number
>
> After receipt of email Number 4, you can view your application at
> DOE's e-Center, [http://e-center.doe.gov](http://e-center.doe.gov/). A
> User ID and password are required. If you have a User ID and password
> you do not need to re-register.
>
> **VERY IMPORTANT -- Download PureEdge Viewer**
>
> In order to download the application package, you will need to install
> PureEdge Viewer. This small, free program will allow you to access,
> complete, and submit applications electronically and securely. For a
> free version of the software, visit the following web site:
> <http://www.grants.gov/DownloadViewer>.
>
> **TABLE OF CONTENTS**
>
> ***\[To update the Table of Contents, place the cursor in the table to
> highlight it and hit F9. Do NOT alter the Table. Changes made to the
> body of the document will automatically be updated, to include page
> numbers, by using the F9 function.\]***
>
> [PART I -- FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION
> 4](#part-i-funding-opportunity-description)
>
> [PART II -- AWARD INFORMATION 22](#part-ii-award-information)
>
> [A. TYPE OF AWARD INSTRUMENT 22](#__RefHeading___Toc112565975)
>
> [B. ESTIMATED FUNDING 22](#__RefHeading___Toc112565976)
>
> [C. MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM AWARD SIZE 22](#__RefHeading___Toc112565977)
>
> [D. EXPECTED NUMBER OF AWARDS 22](#__RefHeading___Toc112565978)
>
> [E. ANTICIPATED AWARD SIZE. 22](#e.-anticipated-award-size.-optional)
>
> [F. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE. 23](#f.-period-of-performance.-optional)
>
> [PART III - ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION
> 24](#part-iii---eligibility-information)
>
> [A. ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS. 24](#a.-eligible-applicants.-required)
>
> [B. COST SHARING
> 24](#b.-cost-sharing.-required-consistent-with-applicable-statutory-and)
>
> [C. OTHER ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS.
> 24](#c.-other-eligibility-requirements.)
>
> [PART IV -- APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION
> 26](#part-iv-application-and-submission-information)
>
> [A. ADDRESS TO REQUEST APPLICATION PACKAGE.
> 26](#a.-address-to-request-application-package.-required)
>
> [B. LETTER OF INTENT AND PRE-APPLICATION.
> 26](#b.-letter-of-intent-and-pre-application.)
>
> [C. CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION -- SF 424
> 26](#c.-content-and-form-of-application-sf-424)
>
> [D. SUBMISSIONS FROM SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS.
> 31](#d.-submissions-from-successful-applicants.)
>
> [E. SUBMISSION DATES AND TIMES. 31](#e.-submission-dates-and-times.)
>
> [F. INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW
> 31](#f.-intergovernmental-review-select-one)
>
> [G. FUNDING RESTRICTIONS 31](#__RefHeading___Toc112565994)
>
> [H. OTHER SUBMISSION AND REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS
> 32](#h.-other-submission-and-registration-requirements)
>
> [PART V - APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION
> 33](#part-v---application-review-information)
>
> [A. CRITERIA 33](#a.-criteria)
>
> [B. REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS.
> 34](#b.-review-and-selection-process.)
>
> [C. ANTICIPATED NOTICE OF SELECTION AND AWARD DATES.
> 34](#c.-anticipated-notice-of-selection-and-award-dates.)
>
> [PART VI - AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION
> 35](#part-vi---award-administration-information)
>
> [A. AWARD NOTICES. 35](#a.-award-notices.)
>
> [B. ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTS.
> 35](#b.-administrative-and-national-policy-requirements.)
>
> [C. REPORTING. 36](#c.-reporting.)
>
> [PART VII - QUESTIONS/AGENCY CONTACTS
> 37](#part-vii---questionsagency-contacts)
>
> [A. QUESTIONS 37](#a.-questions)
>
> [B. AGENCY CONTACT 37](#b.-agency-contact)
>
> [PART VIII - OTHER INFORMATION 38](#part-viii---other-information)
>
> [A. MODIFICATIONS. 38](#a.-modifications.)
>
> [B. GOVERNMENT RIGHT TO REJECT OR NEGOTIATE.
> 38](#b.-government-right-to-reject-or-negotiate.)
>
> [C. COMMITMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS. 38](#c.-commitment-of-public-funds.)
>
> [D. PROPRIETARY APPLICATION INFORMATION.
> 38](#d.-proprietary-application-information.)
>
> [E. EVALUATION AND ADMINISTRATION BY NON-FEDERAL PERSONNEL.
> 38](#e.-evaluation-and-administration-by-non-federal-personnel.)
>
> [F. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DEVELOPED UNDER THIS PROGRAM.
> 39](#f.-intellectual-property-developed-under-this-program.-required-if-the-program-is-for-rdd-or-if-technical-data-are-expected-to-be-first-produced-or-specified-to-be-delivered-under-an-award.)
>
> [G. NOTICE OF RIGHT TO REQUEST PATENT WAIVER.
> 39](#g.-notice-of-right-to-request-patent-waiver.)
>
> [H. NOTICE REGARDING ELIGIBLE/INELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES.
> 39](#h.-notice-regarding-eligibleineligible-activities.)
>
> [APPENDIX A -- DEFINITIONS 40](#appendix-a-definitions)
>
> [APPENDIX B -- RESERVED AND INTENTIONALLY NOT USED
> 44](#appendix-b-reserved-and-intentionally-not-used.)
>
> APPENDIX C - REFERENCE CHECKS ON FEDERAL AWARDS
> ................................45
>
> APPENDIX D - ACCELERATED TEST PROTOCAOLS TO DEMONSTRATE 5500 HOUR
> CATALYST DURABLITY
> .....................................................................................46

# PART I -- FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

# I Funding Opportunity Description

> The FreedomCAR Partnership was established in 2002 as a research and
> development (R&D) partnership between the United States Department of
> Energy (DOE) and the United States Council for Automotive Research
> (USCAR), a partnership among Ford Motor Company, DaimlerChrysler, and
> General Motors. A major thrust of FreedomCAR is to develop and
> validate the technologies necessary to enable mass production of
> affordable hydrogen-fueled fuel cell vehicles. After President Bush
> announced the [Hydrogen Fuel
> Initiative](http://www.hydrogen.energy.gov/presidents_initiative.html)
> in 2003, the partnership was expanded to the FreedomCAR and Fuel
> Partnership by bringing the major energy companies to the
> table---British Petroleum, ChevronTexaco, ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil
> and Shell---to focus on reducing the cost and improving systems for
> hydrogen production, storage and delivery. The combined partnership
> addresses the vehicle and infrastructure development technologies
> needed to make it practical and cost-effective for large numbers of
> Americans to choose to use fuel cell vehicles by 2020.
>
> The DOE seeks to develop a durable, direct hydrogen fuel cell power
> system that reaches a peak efficiency of 60% and has a power density
> of 650 W/L, a specific power of 650 W/kg and a cost of \$45/kW by 2010
> (\$30/kW by 2015). Additional technical performance and cost targets
> have been developed for components and sub-systems that comprise a
> complete fuel cell system. The research and development sought through
> this funding announcement will be focused on advancing fuel cell
> technology towards the 2010 technical performance and cost targets
> developed through the FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership and detailed in
> the DOE Hydrogen, Fuel Cells, and Infrastructure Technologies Program
> Multi-Year RD&D Plan (MYPP),
> <http://www.eere.energy.gov/hydrogenandfuelcells/mypp/>. The
> technologies must be scalable to be suitable across the spectrum of
> vehicle platforms. The targets are revised periodically to reflect
> advances in the technology. Proposals are sought in the following
> topic areas:
>
> **[Topic 1 Improved Fuel Cell Membranes]{.underline}**
>
> Topic 1A Proton Conducting Materials
>
> Topic 1B Advanced Membranes Demonstrated in MEAs
>
> **[Topic 2 Water Transport within the Stack]{.underline}**

Topic 2A Water Transport Exploratory Studies

> Topic 2B Water Transport Engineering Studies
>
> [Topic 3 Advanced Cathode Catalysts and Supports]{.underline}
>
> Topic 3A Cathode Catalysts
>
> Topic 3B Catalyst Support Degradation Mechanisms
>
> Topic 3C Advanced Catalysts and Supports Demonstrated in MEAs
>
> **[Topic 4 Cell Hardware]{.underline}**

Topic 4A Bipolar Plates

> Topic 4B Seals
>
> **[Topic 5 Innovative Fuel Cell Concepts]{.underline}**
>
> Topic 5A Innovative Fuel Cell Stack
>
> Topic 5B Fuel Cell Balance of Plant
>
> [Topic 6 Effects of Impurities on Fuel Cell Performance and
> Durability]{.underline}
>
> [Topic 7 Stationary Fuel Cell Demonstration]{.underline}
>
> Topic 7A International Partnership for a Hydrogen Economy
>
> Topic 7B International
>
> Topic 7C Intergovernmental
>
> This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is open to nonprofit and
> for-profit private entities, institutions of higher education, and
> state and local governments. Cost sharing of 20% for research and
> development and 50% for demonstration will be required for awards
> issued under this FOA.
>
> Teaming arrangements are strongly encouraged among industry (such as
> fuel cell developers, catalyst/membrane suppliers, and component
> developers), national laboratories, and universities to take advantage
> of the best complementary expertise and technologies available from
> the different organizations.

## Topic 1 Improved Fuel Cell Membranes

> Membranes are a critical component of the fuel cell stack and must be
> durable and tolerate a wide range of operating conditions including
> low humidity and high temperature (≤120°C for transportation
> applications and \>120°C for stationary applications). The low
> operating temperature and the membrane's humidity requirements add
> complexity to the fuel cell system that impacts the system cost and
> durability. Improved membranes need to perform better and be less
> expensive than the current generation of polymer membranes.
>
> Proposals are sought for development of membranes that will operate in
> a fuel cell system, over the full range of operating temperatures,
> with less than 5% loss of performance by the end of life, without
> external humidification. Applicants may address one or more of the
> research areas detailed below. Go/No-Go decision points for research
> in these areas are necessary and should be used when an application
> includes materials development work that must succeed before
> proceeding to membrane electrode assembly (MEA) and/or short stack
> testing.
>
> Teaming of a polymer science group, an MEA manufacturer, and a fuel
> cell manufacturer is encouraged where appropriate.
>
> **Topic 1A Proton Conducting Materials**
>
> Successful applicants should synthesize ionomer and membrane materials
> that conduct protons at low relative humidity (25-50% RH), withstand
> temperatures up to 120°C, and are electrically insulating. While the
> materials do not necessarily need to be polymeric in nature, the
> material must possess properties that enable it to be cast as a
> membrane, coated with a catalyst and/or incorporated into the catalyst
> layer while surviving fuel cell operating conditions. The proposed
> membrane material must meet the conductivity requirements over the
> range of operating conditions specified in Table 1 from -20°C to
> 120°C. Additionally, the material must demonstrate the ability to meet
> the cost and durability targets in the aggressive environment of the
> fuel cell, and have good mechanical and chemical stability under
> highly oxidizing conditions.
>
> In this task, applicants will develop membranes that operate over the
> full range of temperature and humidity conditions with increased
> durability. Proposals are being solicited to:

-   Conduct research to elucidate ionomer and membrane failure and
    degradation mechanisms for transportation and stationary
    applications.

-   Research, develop, and demonstrate membranes that address and
    mitigate the failure mechanisms for transportation and/or stationary
    applications with a design lifetime target of 5,000 hours with \<5%
    degradation and 40,000 hours with \<10% degradation, respectively.

> The development of accelerated lifetime test procedures that could be
> used to determine the long-term durability of the membranes would be
> extremely desirable in shortening the time required to test candidate
> systems. Applicants should discuss material properties and operating
> conditions that affect membrane durability and discuss how accelerated
> tests relate to real-time testing. Additionally, extended testing
> (\>2000 testing hours) should be conducted to characterize the life
> expectancy and performance degradation. Indicators such as crossover,
> ion release rate, etc. should be used to evaluate the amount of
> membrane degradation.
>
> The primary objectives of Task 1A are to develop and evaluate
> membranes for the ability to meet the 2010 targets listed in Table 1
> and to characterize the membrane/electrode interface. Award recipients
> will be expected to participate in the biannual DOE High Temperature,
> Low Relative Humidity Working Group Meetings.
>
> **Topic 1B Advanced Membranes Demonstrated in MEAs**
>
> This topic focuses on demonstrating advanced membranes and ionomers in
> an MEA. Membranes must meet the 2010 technical targets in Table 1
> prior to demonstration in an MEA. The material must be processed into
> catalyst-coated membranes suitable for fuel cell operation, and the
> membrane must be compatible with the electrocatalysts. The membrane
> must meet the conductivity requirements over a range of operating
> conditions from -20 ^o^C to 120 ^o^C, and the membrane must withstand
> the stresses and forces expected in an automotive fuel cell stack
> operation under real-world driving cycles.

+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| > **Table 1.          |             |               |              |
| > Technical Targets:  |             |               |              |
| > Membranes**         |             |               |              |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| > Characteristic      | > Units     | > 2004        | > 2010       |
|                       |             | >             |              |
|                       |             | > Status      |              |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| Operating Temperature | > °C        | > ≤80         | > ≤120       |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| Inlet water vapor     | > kPa       | > 50          | > ≤1.5       |
| partial pressure      | >           |               |              |
|                       | >           |               |              |
|                       |  (absolute) |               |              |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| > Membrane            | > S/cm      | > 0.10        | > 0.10       |
| > Conductivity at     | >           | >             | >            |
| > inlet water vapor   | > S/cm      | > 0.07        | > 0.07       |
| > partial pressure    | >           | >             | >            |
| > and:                | > S/cm      | > 0.01        | > 0.01       |
| >                     |             |               |              |
| > Operating           |             |               |              |
| > Temperature         |             |               |              |
|                       |             |               |              |
| Room temperature      |             |               |              |
|                       |             |               |              |
| -20°C                 |             |               |              |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| Oxygen cross-over^a^  | > mA/cm^2^  | > 5           | > 2          |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| Hydrogen              | > mA/cm^2^  | > 5           | > 2          |
| cross-over^a^         |             |               |              |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| Area Specific         | > ohm cm^2^ | > 0.03        | > 0.02       |
| Resistance            |             |               |              |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| Cost ^b^              | > \$/m^2^   | > 65^c^       | > 40         |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| Durability with       | > hours     | > \~2000^d^   | > 5000^e^    |
| cycling               | >           | >             | >            |
|                       | > hours     | > (not        | > 2000       |
| At operating temp     |             | > avail.^f^)  |              |
| ≤80°C                 |             |               |              |
|                       |             |               |              |
| At operating temp     |             |               |              |
| \>80°C                |             |               |              |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| Unassisted start from | > °C        | > -20         | > -40        |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| Thermal cyclability   |             | > Yes         | > Yes        |
| in presence of        |             |               |              |
| condensed water       |             |               |              |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+
| > ^a^ Tested in MEA   |             |               |              |
| > at 1 atm O~2~ or    |             |               |              |
| > H~2~ at nominal     |             |               |              |
| > stack operating     |             |               |              |
| > temperature.        |             |               |              |
| >                     |             |               |              |
| > ^b^ Based on 2002   |             |               |              |
| > dollars and costs   |             |               |              |
| > projected to high   |             |               |              |
| > volume production   |             |               |              |
| > (500,000 stacks per |             |               |              |
| > year).              |             |               |              |
| >                     |             |               |              |
| > ^c^ Based on 2004   |             |               |              |
| > TIAX Study that     |             |               |              |
| > will be             |             |               |              |
| > periodically        |             |               |              |
| > updated.            |             |               |              |
| >                     |             |               |              |
| > ^d^ Durability is   |             |               |              |
| > being evaluated.    |             |               |              |
| > Steady-state        |             |               |              |
| > durability is 9,000 |             |               |              |
| > hours.              |             |               |              |
| >                     |             |               |              |
| > ^e^ Includes        |             |               |              |
| > typical drive       |             |               |              |
| > cycles.             |             |               |              |
| >                     |             |               |              |
| > ^f^                 |             |               |              |
| > High-temperature    |             |               |              |
| > membranes are still |             |               |              |
| > in a development    |             |               |              |
| > stage and           |             |               |              |
| > durability data are |             |               |              |
| > not available.      |             |               |              |
+-----------------------+-------------+---------------+--------------+

> Applicants should provide sufficient rationale that their concept
> could lead to projected area specific resistance in a fuel cell of
> ≤0.02 ohm cm^2^ under the operating conditions, specifically
> temperature and partial pressure of water vapor, listed in Table 1.
> Applicants should also show that the membrane can be expected to meet
> the technical targets in Table 1. Research to gain a better
> understanding of the mechanisms present at the membrane/electrode
> interface is being solicited.

The main objective of Topic 1B is to prepare and test the most promising
membrane materials as catalyst coated membranes (CCMs) and MEAs with
catalyst type and loading to be determined jointly with DOE. The MEAs
(50 cm^2^) and full-area (≥250 cm^2^) short stacks (≥10 cells) made with
improved membrane materials must demonstrate low-humidity operation with
improved durability. Testing should be carried out according to the DOE
2010 Durability Protocol to be issued in 2007. Finally, a short stack of
most promising membranes evaluated in an MEA is to be independently
tested at a DOE laboratory or other DOE designated entity.

## Topic 2 Water Transport within the Stack (Over Full Range of Operating Conditions)

> Effective management of the water produced in the fuel cell can
> alleviate problems with flooding of the catalysts and drying out of
> the membrane over the full operating temperature range. Ineffective
> water management leads to liquid-phase water blockage and
> mass-transport-limited performance or decreased protonic conductivity
> in the membrane and catalyst layers due to dehumidification of the
> ionomer. The designs of the gas diffusion layers (GDLs), gas flow
> fields in bipolar plates, catalyst layers and membranes affect water
> management and operation at subfreezing conditions. Transportation and
> stationary fuel cells must be able to operate in environments where
> ambient temperatures fall below 0°C. DOE held a workshop on fuel cell
> operation under freezing conditions in February 2005. For further
> information on this workshop see:
> <http://www.eere.energy.gov/hydrogenandfuelcells/fc_freeze_workshop.html>.
>
> DOE is soliciting proposals for research to optimize water management
> within the fuel cell stack to decrease the complexity and cost of a
> fuel cell system. Proposals should address:

-   Need for accurate description (physical/molecular) of mass transport
    through porous media, i.e., models

-   Need to fully understand structure and transport at the catalyst
    interface

-   Prevention of flooding of the cathode and/or GDL during operation at
    peak power conditions.

-   Prevention of dehumidification of the ionomer in the membrane, anode
    and cathode catalyst layers.  

-   Transient operation

-   Durability

> DOE also is soliciting proposals to identify and quantify the effects
> of freezing temperatures on fuel cell components and operation and to
> identify and demonstrate remedies. The remedies must be consistent
> with stack cost, performance, and durability targets. To be
> competitive with internal combustion engines (ICE), a fuel cell
> vehicle (FCV) must be able to start from -20°C and drive away at 50%
> of rated power within 30 seconds. Furthermore, the fuel consumption to
> startup from -20°C and shut down the vehicle should not exceed
> approximately 5MJ of additional energy (includes electrical energy and
> hydrogen used).

Different fuel cell system configurations may require different levels
of water removal and humidification.  Proposals are sought in the areas
of exploratory studies and engineering solutions.

**Topic 2A Water Transport Exploratory Studies**

The goal of this topic is to develop an understanding (not
design-specific) of the water and gas transport in the fuel cell stack
(i.e. GDL, microporous layers, catalyst layers, flow channels, and their
interfaces). How the materials' structural and surface properties affect
water transport and performance, and how these properties change during
operation (e.g., degradation effects) are of interest.

> DOE also seeks proposals that will develop a better understanding of
> the effects of freeze/thaw cycles on PEM fuel cell components, cells,
> and stacks with the aim of using the information to guide mitigation
> strategies. Applicants should describe how proposed studies will lead
> to a better understanding of the freeze/thaw cycle and ultimately lead
> to mitigation measures.
>
> Modeling and optimization should be included in these studies.
> Exploratory studies should include (items with an asterisk (\*) next
> to it are of particular interest):

-   Development of in-situ/ex-situ tools to characterize water transport
    within the different cell components (e.g., GDL, catalyst layer,
    electrolyte) and their interfaces to determine structural and
    surface properties, effects on performance, and changes to
    properties during operation.\*

-   Development of improved diffusion media structures.

-   Definition of optimal wetting relationships between layers.

-   Identification of water transport mechanisms and controlling
    parameters that govern water removal.\*

-   Development of an understanding of operating tradeoffs and
    optimization of material properties for peak power.

-   Experiment and/or model of the state of water and degree of
    membrane, catalyst layer, and GDL saturation as a function of
    operating conditions, material properties, e.g. porosity and
    hydrophobicity, and temperature down to -40˚C.

-   Materials and component development to enhance water transport, and
    decrease flooding and ionomer dehumidification.\*

-   Delineation of water movement under temperature gradients and
    multiphase transport in porous media (MEA) under very low
    temperature conditions.

-   Identification of failure modes during freezing, including
    morphological changes and localized stresses in fuel cell components
    associated with phase transition.

-   Understanding kinetics of phase change in fuel-cell materials, such
    as GDLs and microporous layers.

-   Tailoring materials and components to enhance freeze tolerance and
    increase GDL/catalyst ductility.

    **Topic 2B Water Transport Engineering Studies**

> The goals of this topic are to demonstrate effective water management
> in a full-area (≥250 cm^2^) short stack (≥10 cells) and to develop and
> evaluate engineering solutions which mitigate freeze/thaw damage and
> improve subfreezing operation. Engineering design solutions are sought
> that can be used across a range of component, stack and system
> configurations.
>
> Examples of engineering issues include:

-   Stack shutdown and stack startup procedures under freezing
    conditions to mitigate freeze/thaw damage and to minimize start-up
    time/energy and decay from repeated start up cycles.

-   Stack design and operation to improve subfreezing operation and
    robustness.

Examples of engineering studies include:

-   Development of an MEA with improved fuel cell performance with
    self-humidification.

-   Development of an MEA with improved fuel cell performance under
    high-power conditions where flooding is normally observed.

> The primary objective of Topic 2B is to develop a full area (≥250
> cm^2^) short stack (≥10 cells), incorporating the proposed water
> management engineering solution, that meets the DOE performance
> targets (see MYPP Tables 3.4.4 and 3.4.6), over the full-range of
> operating conditions. In addressing freeze/thaw issues, the stack
> must, without suffering performance degradation, survive repeated
> soaking at -40ºC (for at least 8 hours), and

-   For transportation applications, the stack must start-up to 50% of
    rated power in 30 seconds using \<5 MJ power from -20ºC and start
    unassisted from -40ºC.

-   For stationary applications, the stack should start unassisted,
    reaching 90% rated power in \<30 minutes.

> After testing at the developer's site, the stack is to be
> independently evaluated at a DOE laboratory or other designated
> entity.

## Topic 3 Advanced Cathode Catalysts and Supports 

> Advances are needed to improve the activity and durability and reduce
> the cost of cathode catalysts in polymer electrolyte membrane
> **(**PEM) fuel cells. Improved durability of carbon catalyst supports
> is needed as well. The status and technical targets for
> electrocatalysts and catalyst supports for use in a direct hydrogen
> fuel cell for transportation applications are included in Table 2.
> This topic addresses the shortcomings of current catalyst technology,
> i.e. the differences between the current status and the 2010 targets.
> This topic focuses on cathode catalysts because the cathode
> overpotentials are much larger than anode overpotentials. Applicants
> may respond to one or more of the research areas detailed below.
> Go/No-Go decision points for research in these areas are necessary and
> should be used when an application includes materials development that
> must succeed before proceeding to membrane electrode assembly (MEA)
> and short stack testing.
>
> Topic 3A Cathode Catalysts
>
> Cost and durability are two of the major barriers to the
> commercialization of fuel cells. A significant fraction of the cost of
> a fuel cell comes from precious metal catalysts that are currently
> used on the PEM anode and cathode for the electrochemical reactions.
> The durability of catalysts can be compromised by platinum (Pt)
> sintering (particle growth) and dissolution, especially at high
> electrode potentials; this sintering/dissolution is accelerated under
> load-cycling.
>
> DOE is interested in the development and use of durable, low cost,
> low- or non-precious metal cathode catalysts with increased activity
> and utilization that meet the performance and cost targets in Table 2.
> Proposals are being sought to:

-   Elucidate catalyst degradation mechanisms and develop strategies to
    meet the targets in Table 2 for electrochemical area loss. The
    catalysts are expected to meet the durability requirements (40,000
    hours operation for stationary applications, 5000 hours operation at
    ≤80°C and 2000 hours at \>80°C for transportation applications) with
    total precious group metal loading of less than 0.3 mg/cm^2^.

-   Carry out research and development to increase catalyst activity and
    utilization.

The applicant's approach to the development of a low- or non-precious
metal cathode catalyst must be clearly described, and the technical and
economic viability of the proposed catalyst material must be justified.
For example, mass-transport limitations would preclude the use of a
catalyst with activity more than an order of magnitude lower than
conventional precious metal catalysts, even if the cost of the
non-precious metal catalyst was several orders of magnitude lower. A
possible area of investigation includes the use of alloys which could
increase the activity and reduce the cost of cathode catalysts. An
accelerated lifetime test procedure to determine the long-term
durability of catalysts under realistic conditions will shorten the time
required to test candidate systems. Such a procedure can be found in
Appendix D of this FOA and should be used to characterize life
expectancy and performance degradation of the candidate catalysts.

+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > **Table 2:          |                |          |           |     |
| > Technical Targets:  |                |          |           |     |
| > Electrocatalysts**  |                |          |           |     |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > **Characteristic**  | > **Units**    | > **Cell | > **Stack | **2 |
|                       |                | >        | >         | 010 |
|                       |                | Status** |  Status** | Ta  |
|                       |                |          |           | rge |
|                       |                |          |           | t** |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > Platinum group      | > g/kW~rated~  | > 0.6    | > 1.3     | 0.5 |
| > metal Total Content |                |          |           |     |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > Platinum group      | > mg PGM/cm^2^ | > 0.45   | > 0.80    | 0.3 |
| > metal Total Loading | > electrode    |          |           |     |
| > ^a^                 | > area         |          |           |     |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > Cost                | > \$/kW ^b^    | > 9      | > 20 ^c^  | 8   |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > Durability with     | > Hours        | > \>2000 | >         | 5   |
| > cycling             | >              | >        | \~2000^d^ | 000 |
| >                     | > Hours        | > (not   | >         | ^e^ |
| > Operating           |                | >        | > (not    |     |
| > temperature ≤80°C   |                |  avail.) | > avail.) | 2   |
| >                     |                | > ^f^    | > ^f^     | 000 |
| > Operating           |                |          |           |     |
| > temperature \>80°C  |                |          |           |     |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > Electrochemical     | > \%           | > 90     | > 90      | \   |
| > Area loss^g^        |                |          |           | <40 |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > Electrocatalyst     | > mV after 100 | >        |           | \   |
| > support loss^g^     | > hours @ 1.2  |  \>30^h^ |           | <30 |
|                       | > V            |          |           |     |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > Mass Activity ^i^   | > A/mg~Pt~     | > 0.28   | > 0.11    | 0   |
|                       | >              |          |           | .44 |
|                       | > \@           |          |           |     |
|                       | 900mV~iR-free~ |          |           |     |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > Specific Activity   | > μA/cm^2^     | > 550    | > 180     | 720 |
| > ^i^                 | >              |          |           |     |
|                       | > @            |          |           |     |
|                       | >              |          |           |     |
|                       | 900mV~iR-free~ |          |           |     |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > Non-Pt Catalyst     | > A/cm^3^      | > 8      | > not     | \>  |
| > Activity per volume | >              |          | > avail.  | 130 |
| > of supported        | > \@           |          |           |     |
| > catalyst            | 800mV~iR-free~ |          |           |     |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+
| > ^a^ Derived from    |                |          |           |     |
| > achieving           |                |          |           |     |
| > performance at      |                |          |           |     |
| > rated power targets |                |          |           |     |
| > specified in Table  |                |          |           |     |
| > 3.4.14 of the MYPP  |                |          |           |     |
| > (http://www.e       |                |          |           |     |
| ere.energy.gov/hydrog |                |          |           |     |
| enandfuelcells/mypp). |                |          |           |     |
| > Loadings may have   |                |          |           |     |
| > to be lower.        |                |          |           |     |
| >                     |                |          |           |     |
| > ^b^ Based on        |                |          |           |     |
| > platinum cost of    |                |          |           |     |
| > \$450/troy ounce =  |                |          |           |     |
| > \$15/g, loading \<  |                |          |           |     |
| > 0.2 g/kW~e~ and     |                |          |           |     |
| > cost projected to   |                |          |           |     |
| > high volume         |                |          |           |     |
| > production (500,000 |                |          |           |     |
| > stacks per year).   |                |          |           |     |
| >                     |                |          |           |     |
| > ^c^ Based on 2004   |                |          |           |     |
| > TIAX cost analysis  |                |          |           |     |
| > and will be         |                |          |           |     |
| > periodically        |                |          |           |     |
| > updated.            |                |          |           |     |
| >                     |                |          |           |     |
| > ^d^ Durability is   |                |          |           |     |
| > being evaluated.    |                |          |           |     |
| > Steady state        |                |          |           |     |
| > durability is 9,000 |                |          |           |     |
| > hours.              |                |          |           |     |
| >                     |                |          |           |     |
| > ^e^ Based on        |                |          |           |     |
| > appropriate test    |                |          |           |     |
| > protocol (to be     |                |          |           |     |
| > issued in 2007).    |                |          |           |     |
| >                     |                |          |           |     |
| > ^f^                 |                |          |           |     |
| > High-temperature    |                |          |           |     |
| > membranes are still |                |          |           |     |
| > in a development    |                |          |           |     |
| > stage and           |                |          |           |     |
| > durability data is  |                |          |           |     |
| > not available.      |                |          |           |     |
| >                     |                |          |           |     |
| > ^g^ Tested per      |                |          |           |     |
| > Accelerated Test    |                |          |           |     |
| > Protocol in         |                |          |           |     |
| > Appendix D          |                |          |           |     |
| >                     |                |          |           |     |
| > ^h^ After 25 hours  |                |          |           |     |
| >                     |                |          |           |     |
| > ^i^ Test at         |                |          |           |     |
| > 80°C/120°C          |                |          |           |     |
| > H~2~/O~2~ in MEA;   |                |          |           |     |
| > fully humidified    |                |          |           |     |
| > with total outlet   |                |          |           |     |
| > pressure of 150     |                |          |           |     |
| > kPa;                |                |          |           |     |
|                       |                |          |           |     |
| anode stoichiometry   |                |          |           |     |
| 2; cathode            |                |          |           |     |
| stoichiometry 9.5.    |                |          |           |     |
+-----------------------+----------------+----------+-----------+-----+

> The primary objective of Topic 3A is to perform electrochemical tests
> to demonstrate improved catalyst activity (with standard support but
> not within an MEA) compared to standard platinum. Characterization
> could include rotating disk electrode or rotating ring disk electrode
> tests or potential difference measurements. After a go/no-go decision
> based on these tests, successful candidate materials would be
> demonstrated in a single cell (active area [\>]{.underline} 50 cm^2^)
> to show progress against the 2010 stack targets listed in Table 2.
> Following a second go/no-go decision based on the performance results,
> successful candidate materials would be tested in a full size single
> cell ([\>]{.underline} 250 cm^2^) according to the accelerated
> catalyst durability protocol found in Appendix D and compared to the
> 2010 electrochemical area loss and targets listed in Table 2.
>
> Topic 3B Catalyst Support Degradation Mechanisms
>
> Durability of catalyst supports is another technical barrier for
> stationary and transportation applications of PEM fuel cells. Carbon
> support corrosion poses significant concerns at high electrode
> potentials and is accelerated during start/stop cycles and during
> higher temperature operation (\>100°C).
>
> Proposals are being sought to:

-   Elucidate carbon support degradation mechanisms and develop
    strategies to meet the target in Table 2 for electrocatalyst support
    loss. The supports are expected to meet the design lifetime
    requirement (40,000 hours operation for stationary applications,
    5,000 hours under cyclic operation for transportation applications).

-   Develop carbon supports to address and mitigate degradation
    mechanisms for transportation and/or stationary applications with a
    design lifetime target of 5,000 or 40,000 hours, respectively.

> Possible topics for investigation include alternative support
> structures and morphology, as well as alternative support
> compositions. An accelerated lifetime test procedure to determine the
> long-term durability of supports under realistic conditions will
> shorten the time required to test candidate systems. Such a procedure
> can be found in Appendix D of this FOA and should be used to
> characterize life expectancy and performance degradation of the
> supports.
>
> The primary objective of Topic 3B is to perform electrochemical tests
> to demonstrate that activity of a standard Pt catalyst on a candidate
> support is equal to or better than that of the same standard Pt
> catalyst on standard carbon support. After a go/no-go decision based
> on that test, successful candidate materials would be demonstrated in
> a single cell (active area [\>]{.underline} 50 cm^2^) according to the
> accelerated catalyst support durability protocol found in Appendix D
> of this FOA and compared to the 2010 electrocatalyst support loss and
> activity targets listed in Table 2.
>
> **Topic 3C Advanced Catalysts and Supports Demonstrated in MEAs**
>
> The performance and cost targets in Table 2 are prescribed for
> catalysts and supports in a fuel cell or in a fuel cell stack.
> Increased performance of fuel cells containing improved components
> such as catalysts and supports may not be realized due to material
> incompatibilities between the different components. Thus, in addition
> to improving the inherent catalyst activity, durability and
> utilization as well as the support durability, applicants should
> optimize the performance of the catalyst layer within the MEA. Such
> optimization could include development of strategies to address
> interface and cross-contamination issues, development of catalyst
> layers with advanced designs and properties, and electrodes designed
> for greater current densities and power.
>
> The primary objective of Topic 3C is to demonstrate that the candidate
> cathode catalyst and/or candidate catalyst support materials in a full
> size (≥250 cm^2^) short stack (≥ 10 cells) shows progress against the
> 2010 stack targets listed in Table 2. The short stack is to be
> independently evaluated at a DOE laboratory or other DOE designated
> entity.
>
> **Topic 4 Cell Hardware**

## This topic addresses cell hardware issues including weight, corrosion and cost of bipolar plates and durability of seals. The Applicant must arrange for independent verification of the performance of the plates and/or seals by a fuel cell developer in addition to any proposed in-house testing. 

**Topic 4A Bipolar Plates**

Bipolar plates represent a significant fraction of stack cost and
weight. DOE seeks development and demonstration of materials and
processes for fabricating full-size active area bipolar plates that can
meet all of the DOE bipolar plate targets (see Table 3 below) including
the cost target of \$6/kW when projected to high volume production
(500,000 stacks per year). The process must be scaleable to high-volume
production, although that should not be part of the proposal.

The plates must demonstrate in-stack performance that is at least
comparable to the performance of an equivalent stack using machined
graphite plates. The plates are expected to maintain performance over
5,000 hours. Testing should include demonstration of adequate
performance under dynamic drive cycle conditions.

The primary objective of Topic 4A is to demonstrate advanced bipolar
plates in a multi-cell stack (≥10 cells) incorporating full scale plates
(≥ 250 cm^2^) that meet the plate property and cost targets of Table 3.
After developer testing, the stack is to undergo independent evaluation
at a DOE laboratory or other DOE designated entity.

+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| > **Table 3:        |                     |            |            |
| > Technical         |                     |            |            |
| > Targets: Bipolar  |                     |            |            |
| > Plates**          |                     |            |            |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| >                   | > **Units**         | >          | > **2010** |
|  **Characteristic** |                     | **Status** |            |
|                     |                     | >          |            |
|                     |                     | > **2004** |            |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| > Cost              | > \$/kW             | > 10       | > 6        |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| > Weight            | > kg/kW             | > 0.36     | > \<1      |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| > H~2~ Permeation   | > cm^3^ sec^-1^     | > \<2 x    | > \<2 ×    |
| > Flux              | > cm^-2^            | > 10^--6^  | > 10^--6^  |
|                     | >                   |            |            |
|                     | > @ 80^o^C, 3 atm   |            |            |
|                     | >                   |            |            |
|                     | > (equivalent to    |            |            |
|                     | > \<0.1 mA/cm^2^)   |            |            |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| > Corrosion         | > μA/cm^2^          | > \<1 ^a^  | > \<1^b^   |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| > Electrical        | > S/cm              | > \>600    | > \>100    |
| > Conductivity      |                     |            |            |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| > Area specific     | > Ohm cm^2^         | > \<0.02   | > 0.01     |
| > resistance*^c^*   |                     |            |            |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| > Flexural Strength | > MPa               | > \>34     | >          |
|                     |                     |            | \>4(crush) |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| > Flexibility       | > \% deflection at  | > 1.5 to   | > 3 to 5   |
|                     | >                   | > 3.5      |            |
|                     | > mid-span          |            |            |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+
| ^a^ Based on coated |                     |            |            |
| metal plates.       |                     |            |            |
|                     |                     |            |            |
| ^b^ May have to be  |                     |            |            |
| as low as 1         |                     |            |            |
| nA/cm^2^ if all     |                     |            |            |
| corrosion product   |                     |            |            |
| ions remain in      |                     |            |            |
| ionomer.            |                     |            |            |
|                     |                     |            |            |
| ^c^ Includes        |                     |            |            |
| contact resistance. |                     |            |            |
+---------------------+---------------------+------------+------------+

> **Topic 4B Seals**
>
> New seal materials are sought which are durable and survive over the
> lifetime of the fuel cell (5,000 hours for transportation applications
> and 40,000 hours for stationary applications), possess chemical and
> structural integrity, are non-conductive, gas impermeable, and low
> cost. Any potential seal materials must be shown to be durable and
> compatible with the membrane and other cell components.
>
> Proposals are sought which develop durable PEM fuel cell seal
> materials and structures. Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of the
> current status of seals. Proposals should include candidate materials
> and the rationale for their consideration. It is anticipated that
> out-of-cell testing property determination will precede *in-situ*
> testing. An improvement in the mechanical and chemical stability of
> interfacial seals is required for durability. Mechanically, the seals
> need to maintain their sealing capability for the duration in the
> acidic PEM environment. Chemically, the seal should not contaminate
> the internals especially the catalyst layers provided for reaction.
> Accelerated testing of seals should be conducted in ex-situ
> experiments and at the single cell level and may include:

-   Thermogravimetric/Mass Spectrometry (TGA/MS) for chemical stability:
    TGA should be conducted to determine material weight loss as a
    function of temperature. An Arrhenius relationship is then used to
    determine weight loss at fuel cell operating conditions. During the
    TGA run, a MS analysis should be performed to identify volatile
    species which could deposit on fuel cell catalysts during operation.

-   Compressive Stress Relaxation (CSR): Compressive stress relaxation
    or lap shear tests should be conducted to measure sealability. The
    compression set should be measured at 95^o^C and 80^o^C for 4,000 h.
    An Arrhenius type analysis should be conducted to determine the
    activation energy and used to calculate sealability under fuel cell
    operating conditions.

> One objective of Topic 4B is to prepare a report detailing the results
> of the chemical and mechanical stability tests. For seal materials
> that pass a go/no-go decision point by satisfying the chemical and
> mechanical requirements, another objective is to demonstrate the
> candidate materials in a single cell assembled with typical loads that
> will be applied in stacks. At least 2,000 hours of durability under
> realistic operating conditions including some load cycling must be
> demonstrated. The planned test protocol should be included in the
> proposal. Information to be reported should include cell performance
> stability data and post-test chemical and mechanical analysis of the
> seal and the MEA to quantify the stability of the seal material.

## Topic 5 Innovative Fuel Cell Concepts

**Topic 5A Innovative Fuel Cell Stack**

Typical PEM fuel cell configurations include multiple planar cells that
are stacked to achieve adequate working voltages and are fueled by
hydrogen and air. Proposals are sought to develop alternative,
innovative fuel cell geometries, configurations, architectures, and
concepts including non-polymer electrolytes with significant potential
for increasing power density, specific power and efficiency, while
staying within range of meeting targets for performance, cost,
durability and reliability.

The alternative fuel cell architecture will ideally operate on a simpler
platform, and thus eliminate part count, seals, cooling plates, etc. or
minimize ancillary equipment such as compressors/blowers, pumps, heat
exchangers, and humidifiers. This could lead to increased reliability
and lifetime. Applicants should have at least preliminary data
demonstrating the potential to meet DOE's technical targets targets (see
MYPP Tables 3.4.4 and 3.4.6).

Areas of research interest include, but are not limited to, applications
from biotechnology, micro technology, or nano technology (such as new
molecular architectures based on nanotubes, bucky balls or ionic
liquids); unique cell design; and alternative concepts for proton
conduction.

> Proposed approaches should clearly demonstrate the potential benefits
> compared to conventional PEM fuel cell technology for meeting system
> technical targets for automotive or stationary applications.
>
> The primary objective of Topic 5A is to fabricate a 1 kW fuel cell
> prototype which is to undergo independent evaluation at a DOE national
> laboratory or another DOE designated location.

**Topic 5B Fuel Cell Balance of Plant**

> Typical ancillary equipment that accompanies the fuel cell stack (such
> as the compressors/blowers, motors, pumps, hoses, deionizers, water
> traps, radiators, humidifiers, etc.) may significantly increase the
> cost, decrease the overall efficiency, and/or increase the size and
> weight of the complete fuel cell system. If alternate fuel cell
> architecture cannot eliminate the need for these components, then
> ideas are sought for new materials or devices that would have a major
> effect on improving the overall system performance and lower the
> overall system cost. Applicants should have at least preliminary data
> demonstrating the potential to meet DOE's technical targets, if
> applicable.
>
> Areas of research interest include, but are not limited to, low cost
> materials suitable for long-term use in the fuel cell system
> environment; advanced low-power consumption devices; and lightweight,
> durable, compact components. Proposed approaches should clearly
> demonstrate the potential benefits compared to conventional PEM fuel
> cell technology for meeting system technical targets for automotive or
> stationary applications.
>
> The primary objective of Topic 5B is to obtain test results for a
> prototype, innovative balance of plant component which demonstrates
> significantly improved overall system performance and/or materials
> properties.

## 

## Topic 6 Effects of Impurities on Fuel Cell Performance and Durability

> Impurities present in both the hydrogen fuel stream and the air intake
> are known to negatively impact a fuel cell's performance and
> durability. In the hydrogen fuel stream, impurities such as carbon
> monoxide (CO), ammonia (NH~3~), hydrogen sulfide (H~2~S), mercaptans,
> halogenated compounds, hydrocarbons, formaldehyde, formic acid, and
> trace metals can displace hydrogen and /or contaminate and ultimately
> poison fuel cell components. Furthermore, air introduced at the fuel
> cell's cathode can contain sulfur dioxide (SO~2~), nitrogen dioxide
> (NO~2~), chlorides, diesel fumes, ocean salt, and dust. In addition,
> relative amounts of these contaminants may change or other
> contaminants may be introduced, depending on the source or methods
> used to produce, deliver, and/or store hydrogen. Overall these
> impurities can block reaction sites for chemisorption, impede charge
> transfer and/or impede protonic conduction, resulting in loss of
> performance that can be either permanent or reversible. DOE is
> primarily interested in the impact of the hydrogen impurities that are
> included in the draft ISO 14687-2 Hydrogen Quality Standard, as in
> Table 4 below.
>
> DOE requests "benchmark" information that provides an explanation of
> the impurities' effect on fuel cell performance. DOE also requests
> quantitative information on the effects of impurities on fuel cell
> performance (e.g., mV loss per hour at a given current density for a
> given quantity of impurity.) Additional areas of particular research
> interest include novel mitigation strategies to increase fuel cell
> tolerance to impurities.
>
> The testing and analysis included in any proposed research design
> should be based on single cell configurations (MEA and hardware) and
> test conditions should be consistent with testing protocols currently
> in use by major manufacturers today. (For background information on
> potential testing protocol configurations, see the free US Fuel Cell
> Council outreach materials http://usfcc.com/resources/brochrep.html.)
> This testing and analysis could involve a variety advanced
> experimental techniques and approaches. Verification and modeling of
> results in short stack testing will also be given consideration. It is
> anticipated that the work conducted under this topic will assist the
> international community in establishing H~2~ fuel quality standards.
>
> The primary objective of Topic 6 is to disseminate the information
> collected during the performance of the award in order to support
> efforts to determine the effects of impurities on fuel cell
> performance and durability. Information that will need to be presented
> includes: 1) A table of experimental parameters relating the loss in
> performance (mV/hour at a current density of 0.6 A/cm^2^) to a given
> concentration of impurity (i.e., ppb or ppm); 2) An explanation of why
> the decline or failure occurs, which includes an interpretation of the
> proposed mechanisms that are ultimately causing a fuel cell's
> declining performance or ultimate failure; 3) A proposed uniform
> single cell testing protocol including standard test conditions and
> operating parameters such as temperature, precious metal loading, and
> identification of standard membrane type; and 4) A description of
> novel approaches to mitigate the effects of impurities on fuel cell
> performance. Additionally, participation in the DOE Hydrogen Quality
> Team and reporting coordination activities with several FreedomCAR
> technical teams, i.e. fuel cells, codes and standards, hydrogen
> production, hydrogen delivery and hydrogen storage will be required.

+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Table 4: Hydrogen      |                       |       |         |
| > Quality                |                       |       |         |
|                          |                       |       |         |
| -   All limits are       |                       |       |         |
|     subject to revision  |                       |       |         |
|     after additional     |                       |       |         |
|     testing under        |                       |       |         |
|     realistic            |                       |       |         |
|     operational          |                       |       |         |
|     conditions and       |                       |       |         |
|     improvement of       |                       |       |         |
|     standardized         |                       |       |         |
|     analytical           |                       |       |         |
|     procedures           |                       |       |         |
|                          |                       |       |         |
| -   Limits are upper     |                       |       |         |
|     limits except for    |                       |       |         |
|     hydrogen fuel index  |                       |       |         |
|     where it is a lower  |                       |       |         |
|     limit.               |                       |       |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > **Constituent**        | **Units**             | **Che | > **I   |
|                          |                       | mical | SO/PDTS |
|                          |                       | Form  | > 14    |
|                          |                       | ula** | 687-2** |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Hydrogen fuel index    | > \%                  | >     | > [\    |
|                          |                       |  H~2~ | >]{.und |
|                          |                       |       | erline} |
|                          |                       |       | > 99.99 |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > **Non-hydrogen         |                       |       |         |
| > constituents**         |                       |       |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Total Non-Particulates | > µmol/mol            |       | > 100   |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Water^a^               | > µmol/mol            | >     | > 5     |
|                          |                       | H~2~O |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Total hydrocarbons^b^  | > µmol/mol            |       | > 2     |
| >                        |                       |       |         |
| > (C~1~ basis)           |                       |       |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Oxygen                 | > µmol/mol            | >     | > 5     |
|                          |                       |  O~2~ |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Helium, Nitrogen,      | > µmol/mol            | > He, | > 100   |
| > Argon                  |                       | >     |         |
|                          |                       | N~2~, |         |
|                          |                       | > Ar  |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Carbon dioxide         | > µmol/mol            | >     | > 10    |
|                          |                       | CO~2~ |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Carbon monoxide        | > µmol/mol            | > CO  | > 0.2   |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Total sulfur ^c^       | > µmol/mol            |       | > 0.004 |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Formaldehyde           | > µmol/mol            | >     | > 0.01  |
|                          |                       |  HCHO |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Formic acid            | > µmol/mol            | >     | > 0.2   |
|                          |                       | HCOOH |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Ammonia                | > µmol/mol            | >     | > 0.1   |
|                          |                       | NH~3~ |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Total halogenates^d^   | > µmol/mol            |       | > 0.05  |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Max. Particulate Size  | > µm                  |       | > \< 10 |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > Particulate            | > µg/L H~2~           |       | > \<10  |
| > Concentration          |                       |       |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+
| > ^a^ Due to water       |                       |       |         |
| > threshold level, the   |                       |       |         |
| > following constituents |                       |       |         |
| > should not be found,   |                       |       |         |
| > however should be      |                       |       |         |
| > tested if there is a   |                       |       |         |
| > question on water      |                       |       |         |
| > content:\              |                       |       |         |
| > Sodium (Na+) @ \< 0.05 |                       |       |         |
| > µmole/mole H~2~ or \<  |                       |       |         |
| > 0.05 µg/liter\         |                       |       |         |
| > Potassium (K+) @       |                       |       |         |
| > \<0.05 µmole/mole H~2~ |                       |       |         |
| > or \< 0.08 µg/liter\   |                       |       |         |
| > or Potassium hydroxide |                       |       |         |
| > (KOH) @ \<             |                       |       |         |
| > 0.05µmole/mole H~2~ or |                       |       |         |
| > \< 0.12- µg/liter      |                       |       |         |
| >                        |                       |       |         |
| > ^b^ Includes, for      |                       |       |         |
| > example, ethylene,     |                       |       |         |
| > propylene, acetylene,  |                       |       |         |
| > benzene, phenol        |                       |       |         |
| > (paraffins, olefins,   |                       |       |         |
| > aromatic compounds,    |                       |       |         |
| > alcohols, aldehydes)   |                       |       |         |
| >                        |                       |       |         |
| > ^c^ Includes, for      |                       |       |         |
| > example, hydrogen      |                       |       |         |
| > sulfide (H~2~S),       |                       |       |         |
| > carbonyl sulfide       |                       |       |         |
| > (COS), carbon          |                       |       |         |
| > disulfide (CS~2~) and  |                       |       |         |
| > mercaptans             |                       |       |         |
| >                        |                       |       |         |
| > ^d^ Includes, for      |                       |       |         |
| > example, hydrogen      |                       |       |         |
| > bromide (HBr),         |                       |       |         |
| > hydrogen chloride      |                       |       |         |
| > (HCl), chlorine        |                       |       |         |
| > (Cl~2~) and organic    |                       |       |         |
| > halides (R-X)          |                       |       |         |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+-------+---------+

## Topic 7 Stationary Fuel Cell System Demonstration 

> DOE is interested in supporting the development of small-scale
> stationary fuel cell power systems developed from a global market
> perspective. This topic seeks to develop and test a prototype
> integrated, new-generation, small distributed polymer electrolyte
> membrane fuel cell combined heat and power (PEMFC CHP) systems (1 to 5
> kW) fuelled by reformed natural gas or other gaseous hydro-carbon or
> biomass derived fuel. Packaged solutions for small fuel cell combined
> heat and power systems, with 40,000 hour durability, 40% electrical
> efficiency and with a target cost of \$400/kW (at production volumes)
> are sought. Research and development will focus on system level issues
> including: new system design; modularity; system modeling and
> integration; balance of plant; electronic control systems for optimal
> heat and power management; grid connection; fully integrated fuel
> processor; system safety; energy/environmental life cycle analysis;
> bench marking and verification of components and systems; and
> recycling and disposal.
>
> The intent is to demonstrate the market viability of the proposed fuel
> cell system and to help expedite the commercial application of the
> technology. The applicant must also provide convincing arguments and
> justification for the demonstration based on the readiness of the
> technology for the proposed application, potential energy saved,
> emissions reduced, and economic potential. Preference will be given to
> international or intergovernmental proposals which cover as many
> technical and economic issues, as appropriate, to achieve synergy
> between component technologies, system integration and fuel
> processing.
>
> For this Topic the applicant is required to team with a partner having
> expertise in the area of grid interconnectivity, such as a utility, to
> address issues involving interfacing with the grid.
>
> The primary objective of Topics 7A, 7B, and 7C is to demonstrate an
> integrated stationary fuel cell system (1 to 5 kW) at a test site.
>
> **Topic 7A: International** **Partnership for a Hydrogen Economy**
>
> Within the framework of the existing International Partnership for a
> Hydrogen Economy (IPHE), this topic is intended to be an international
> collaboration, where funding will be provided from the US and another
> IPHE country to the corresponding participant organizations. This
> topic will only receive a US contribution if the applicants succeed in
> securing a financial commitment from another IPHE country. For more
> information on IPHE see www.iphe.net. The US funding for this topic is
> to support project tasks that are primarily conducted within the US.
> The other IPHE country would support project tasks that are primarily
> conducted within that country.
>
> Topic 7A applications should describe a 1 to 5 kW prototype fuel cell
> demonstration leading to systems capable of 40,000 hours of operation,
> 40% electrical efficiency, and a target cost of \$400/kW at production
> volumes. Grid interconnectivity issues should be clearly identified
> and addressed. The demonstration site location should be identified
> and justified. The proposed demonstration should last a minimum of 6
> months not including fuel cell power plant fabrication and
> installation. A written commitment of support from the other IPHE
> country must be included in the application. Awards for this topic may
> be modified to reflect Intellectual Property provisions and other
> contractual provisions required by applicable International
> Agreements.
>
> **Topic 7B: International**
>
> Within the framework of the existing European Union (EU) -- United
> States (US) Cooperation Agreement on fuel cells, this topic is
> intended to be international in scope with EU-US collaboration, where
> funding will be provided from both sides to the corresponding
> participant organizations, as a result of coordinated calls in the EU
> and US. This topic will only receive a US contribution if the
> applicants succeed in securing a financial commitment from both the EU
> and the US. For more information on European Commission (EC) funding
> opportunities see <http://fp6.cordis.lu/fp6/calls.cfm>. The US funding
> for this topic is to support project tasks that are primarily
> conducted within the US. The EC funding would support project tasks
> that are primarily conducted within the EC.
>
> Topic 7B applications should describe a 1 to 5 kW prototype fuel cell
> demonstration leading to systems capable of 40,000 hours of operation,
> 40% electrical efficiency and a target cost of \$400/kW at production
> volumes. Grid interconnectivity issues should be clearly identified
> and addressed. The demonstration site location should be identified
> and justified. The proposed demonstration should last a minimum of 6
> months not including fuel cell power plant fabrication and
> installation. A written EU commitment of support must be included in
> the application. Awards for this topic may be modified to reflect
> Intellectual Property provisions and other contractual provisions
> required by applicable International Agreements.
>
> **Topic 7C: Intergovernmental**
>
> Military and agricultural sites could provide excellent opportunities
> for prototype installation and testing of stationary fuel cell
> systems. Within the framework of the existing US Hydrogen Interagency
> R&D Task Force, this topic is intended to be an intergovernmental
> collaborative effort. For information on general governmental funding
> opportunities see <http://www.fedgrants.gov/>. For more information on
> the Department of Defense see
> <http://www.onr.navy.mil/02/business_opp.asp>; or Department of
> Agriculture see
> [www.csrees.usda.gov/fo/biobasedproductsbioenergynri.html](http://www.csrees.usda.gov/fo/biobasedproductsbioenergynri.html).
>
> Topic 7C applications should describe a cooperative intergovernmental
> 1 to 5 kW prototype fuel cell demonstration leading to systems capable
> of 40,000 hours of operation, 40% electrical efficiency and a target
> cost of \$400/kW at production volumes. The demonstration site
> location should be identified and justified. The proposed
> demonstration should last a minimum of 6 months not including fuel
> cell power plant fabrication and installation. The intergovernmental
> aspect of this demonstration can be addressed by locating the
> demonstration on a military, agricultural or other government site. Or
> it can be addressed by combining the fuel cell demonstration with
> another federally funded project. For example, an agricultural waste
> to biomass derived fuel or military fuel reformer developed under
> another project could be provided for use in this demonstration.

# PART II -- AWARD INFORMATION

##### {Must complete A - C. Complete items D - G, if applicable - *provide sufficient information so that an applicant can make an informed decision about whether to submit an application.*}

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc112565975 .anchor}**A. TYPE OF AWARD INSTRUMENT**.
*Required*

-   DOE anticipates awarding grants, or cooperative agreements.{Select
    for RD&D announcements that allow for the award of any type of
    instruments (e.g., BAA)}

> []{#__RefHeading___Toc112565976 .anchor}**B. ESTIMATED FUNDING.**
> *Required*
>
> {Select **one** and complete}

-   The actual level of funding depends on the appropriations for this
    program. DOE anticipates that up to \$100M will be available for
    awards under this FOA.

> []{#__RefHeading___Toc112565977 .anchor}
>
> **C. MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM AWARD SIZE.** *Required*
>
> {Complete information for both bullets}

-   Ceiling (i.e., the maximum amount for an individual award made under
    this announcement):

> None

-   Floor (i.e., the minimum amount for an individual award made under
    this announcement):

> None
>
> []{#__RefHeading___Toc112565978 .anchor}**D. EXPECTED NUMBER OF
> AWARDS**. *Optional*

# {Select one and complete}

-    anticipates making approximately 15 awards under this announcement.

# 

## E. ANTICIPATED AWARD SIZE. *Optional* 

# {Select one and complete}

> anticipate(s) that awards for the total project period will vary
> depending upon the topic area. The following table outlines the
> approximate award sizes and project durations DOE anticipates.

  --------------- ------------------------------------- ----------- ---------- ---------- --------
  Topic                                                 Minimum     Award Size Duration   
                                                        Cost Share  (\$M)      (Years)    
                                                        (% Total)                         

  1 Improved Fuel                                                                         
  Cell Membranes                                                                          

  1A              Proton Conducting Materials           20%         \$3-5 M               up to 4

  1B              Advanced Membranes Demonstrated in    20%         \$3-5 M               up to 2
                  MEAs                                                                    

  2 Water                                                                                 
  Transport                                                                               
  Within the                                                                              
  Stack (Over                                                                             
  Full Range of                                                                           
  Operating                                                                               
  Conditions)                                                                             

  2A              Water Transport Exploratory Studies   20%         \$3-5 M               up to 4

  2B              Water Transport Engineering Studies   20%         \$3-5 M               up to 4

  3 Advanced                                                                              
  Cathode                                                                                 
  Catalysts and                                                                           
  Supports                                                                                

  3A              Cathode Catalysts                     20%         \$3-5 M               up to 4

  3B              Catalyst Support Degradation          20%         \$3-5 M               up to 4
                  Mechanisms                                                              

                                                                                          

  3C              Advanced Catalysts and Supports       20%         \$3-5 M               up to 2
                  Demonstrated in MEAs                                                    

  4 Cell Hardware                                                                         

  4A              Bipolar Plates                        20%         \$3-5M                up to 2

  4B              Seals                                 20%         \$1-2M                up to 2

  5 Innovative                                                                            
  Fuel Cell                                                                               
  Concepts                                                                                

  5A              Fuel Cell Stack                       20%         \$0.5-1M              up to 2

  5B              Fuel Cell Balance of Plant            20%         \$0.5-1M              up to 2

  6 Effects of                                                                            
  Impurities on                                                                           
  Fuel Cell                                                                               
  Performance                                                                             

  6 Effects of                                          20%         \$1 - 2 M             up to 4
  Impurities on                                                                           
  Fuel Cell                                                                               
  Performance                                                                             

  7 Stationary                                                                            
  Fuel Cell                                                                               
  Demonstration                                                                           

  7A              International Partnership for a       50%         \$2 - 4 M             up to 3
                  Hydrogen Economy                                                        

  7B              International                         50%         \$2 - 4 M             up to 3

  7C              Intergovernmental                     50%         \$2 - 4 M             up to 3
  --------------- ------------------------------------- ----------- ---------- ---------- --------

## F. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE. *Optional* 

#  {Select one and complete}

-    anticipates making awards that will run for up to 4 years.

# PART III - ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

## A. ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS. *Required* 

> {Select **one**. Select either 1 or 2 for unrestricted eligibility}

-   All types of applicants are eligible to apply, except other Federal
    agencies, Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC)
    Contractors, and nonprofit organizations described in section
    501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that engaged in
    lobbying activities after December 31, 1995.

## B. COST SHARING. *Required* {Consistent with applicable statutory and 

> regulatory requirements, select **one** }

-   The cost share must be at least 20% of the total allowable costs for
    research and development projects and 50% of the total allowable
    costs for demonstration and commercial application projects and must
    come from non-Federal sources. The sum of the Government share,
    including FFRDC contractor costs if applicable, and the recipient
    share of allowable costs equals the total allowable cost of the
    project. (See 10 CFR part 600 for the applicable cost sharing
    requirements.)

## 

## C. OTHER ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS. 

{Select all that apply}

> **[Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC)
> Contractors]{.underline}**. *Optional***\
> **FFRDC applicants are not eligible for an award under this
> announcement, but they may be proposed as a team member subject to the
> following guidelines:
>
> [Authorization for non-DOE/NNSA FFRDCs.]{.underline} The Federal
> agency sponsoring the FFRDC contractor must authorize in writing the
> use of the FFRDC contractor on the proposed project and this
> authorization must be submitted with the application. The use of a
> FFRDC contractor must be consistent with the contractor's authority
> under its award and must not place the FFRDC contractor in direct
> competition with the private sector.
>
> [Authorization for DOE/NNSA FFRDCs]{.underline}. The cognizant
> contracting officer for the FFRDC must authorize in writing the use of
> a DOE/NNSA FFRDC contractor on the proposed project and this
> authorization must be submitted with the application. The following
> wording is acceptable for this authorization.
>
> "Authorization is granted for the \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
> Laboratory to participate in the proposed project. The work proposed
> for the laboratory is consistent with or complimentary to the missions
> of the laboratory, will not adversely impact execution of the DOE/NNSA
> assigned programs at the laboratory, and will not place the laboratory
> in direct competition with the domestic private sector."
>
> [Value/Funding.]{.underline} The value of, and funding for, the FFRDC
> contractor portion of the work will not normally be included in the
> award to a successful applicant. Usually, DOE/NNSA will fund a
> DOE/NNSA FFRDC contractor through the DOE field work proposal system
> and other FFRDC contractors through an interagency agreement with the
> sponsoring agency.
>
> [Cost Share.]{.underline} The applicant's cost share requirement will
> be based on the total cost of the project, including the applicant's
> and the FFRDC contractor's portions of the effort.
>
> [FFRDC Contractor Effort]{.underline}: {Select **one** and complete}
>
> The scope of work to be performed by the FFRDC contractor may not be
> more significant than the scope of work to be performed by the
> applicant.
>
> The FFRDC contractor effort, in aggregate, shall not exceed 50% of the
> total estimated cost of the project, including the applicant's and the
> FFRDC contractor's portions of the effort.
>
> [Responsibility]{.underline}. The applicant, if successful, will be
> the responsible authority regarding the settlement and satisfaction of
> all contractual and administrative issues, including but not limited
> to, disputes and claims arising out of any agreement between the
> applicant and the FFRDC contractor.

# PART IV -- APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

## A. ADDRESS TO REQUEST APPLICATION PACKAGE. *Required* 

> {Select **one**}
>
> Application forms and instructions are available at Grants.gov. To
> access these materials, go to
> [http://www.grants.gov](http://www.grants.gov/), select "Apply for
> Grants," and then select "Download Application Package." Enter the
> CFDA and/or the funding opportunity number located on the cover of
> this announcement and then follow the prompts to download the
> application package. [NOTE]{.underline}: You will not be able to
> download the Application Package unless you have installed PureEdge
> Viewer (See: <http://www.grants.gov/DownloadViewer>).

## B. LETTER OF INTENT AND PRE-APPLICATION. 

1.  **Letter of Intent.** *Required. {Select **one**}*

    Applicants are requested to submit a letter of intent by February
    28, 2006. This letter should include the name of the applicant, the
    title of the project, the name of the Project Director/Principal
    Investigator(s), the amount of funds requested, and a one-page
    abstract. The project title should specify the topic area covered by
    the proposal. Letters of intent will be used to organize and
    expedite the merit review process. Failure to submit such letters
    will not negatively effect a responsive application submitted in a
    timely fashion. The letter of intent should be sent by E-mail to
    <Fuelcells@go.doe.gov>.

> **2. Pre-application.** *Required* {Select **one**}
>
> Pre-applications are not required.

{Complete text block}

> {Select **either:** "C. CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION - SF 424"
> **or** "C. CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION -- SF 424 (R&R)." USE ONLY
> **ONE** SECTION C**. Until further notice, use "C. CONTENT AND FORM OF
> APPLICATION -- SF 424," below.**}

## C. CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION -- SF 424

> You must complete the mandatory forms and any applicable optional
> forms (e.g., SF-LLL- Disclosure of Lobbying Activities) in accordance
> with the instructions on the forms and the additional instructions
> below. **Files that are attached to the forms must be in Adobe
> Portable Document Format (PDF**) **unless otherwise specified in this
> announcement**.

1.  **SF 424 - Application for Federal Assistance.**

> [Complete this form first to populate data in other
> forms]{.underline}. Complete all required fields in accordance with
> the pop-up instructions on the form. To activate the instructions,
> turn on the "Help Mode" (Icon with the pointer and question mark at
> the top of the form).

**2. Other Attachments Form**

Submit the following files with your application and attach them to the
Other Attachments Form. Click on "Add Mandatory Other Attachment" to
attach the Project Narrative. Click on "Add Optional Other Attachment,"
to attach the other files.

**Project Narrative File -** **Mandatory Other Attachment**

The project narrative must not exceed 30 pages, including charts,
graphs, maps, photographs, and other pictorial presentations, when
printed using standard 8.5" by 11" paper with 1 inch margins (top,
bottom, left, and right). EVALUATORS WILL REVIEW ONLY THE NUMBER OF
PAGES SPECIFIED IN THE PRECEDING SENTENCE. The font must not be smaller
than 11 point. Do not include any Internet addresses (URLs) that provide
information necessary to review the application. See Part VIII.D for
instructions on how to mark proprietary application information. Save
the information in a single file named "Project.pdf," and click on "Add
Mandatory Other Attachment" to attach.

The project narrative must include:

> {Select all that apply}

-   [Project Objectives]{.underline}. This section should provide a
    clear, concise statement of the specific objectives/aims of the
    proposed project.

-   [Merit Review Criterion Discussion]{.underline}. The section should
    be formatted to address each of the merit review criterion and
    sub-criterion listed in Section V. A. Provide sufficient information
    so that reviewers will be able to evaluate the application in
    accordance with these merit review criteria. DOE/NNSA WILL EVALUATE
    AND CONSIDER ONLY THOSE APPLICATIONS THAT ADDRESS SEPARATELY EACH OF
    THE MERIT REVIEW CRITERION AND SUB-CRITERION.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   [Project Work Plan/Statement of Objectives]{.underline}: This
    section should identify the activities tasks to be performed and
    provide a time for the accomplishment of the activities/tasks. This
    section should identify all decision points and should include at
    least one go/no-go decision including decision criteria.

    -   [Project Timetable]{.underline}: This section should outline as
        a function of time, year by year, all the important activities,
        milestones, or phases of the project, including any activities
        planned beyond the project period. Successful applicants must
        use this project timetable to report progress.

-   [Roles of Participants]{.underline}: For multi-organizational or
    multi-investigator projects, describe the roles and the work to be
    performed by each participant/investigator, business agreements
    between the applicant and participants, and how the various efforts
    will be integrated and managed.

-   [Facilities and Other Resources]{.underline}: Identify the
    facilities (e.g., office, laboratory, animal, computer, etc.) to be
    used at each performance site listed and, if appropriate, indicate
    their capacities, pertinent capabilities, relative proximity and
    extent of availability to the project. Describe only those resources
    that are directly applicable to the proposed work. Provide any
    information describing the other resources available to the project,
    such as machine or electronic shops***.***

-   [Equipment:]{.underline} List important items of equipment already
    available for this project and, if appropriate, note the location
    and pertinent capabilities of each. If you are proposing to acquire
    equipment, describe comparable equipment, if any, already at your
    organization and explain why it cannot be used.

-   Preliminary Safety Plan in accordance with the "Guidance for Safety
    Aspects of Proposed Hydrogen Projects." This guidance document can
    be found at:

> <http://www.eere.energy.gov/hydrogenfuelcells/pdfs/safety_guidance.pdf>

**Project Summary/Abstract File**

The project summary/abstract must contain a summary of the proposed
activity suitable for dissemination to the public. It should be a
self-contained document that identifies the name of the applicant, the
project director/principal investigator(s), the project title, the
objectives of the project, a description of the project, including
methods to be employed, the potential impact of the project (i.e.,
benefits, outcomes), and major participants (for collaborative
projects). This document must not include any proprietary or sensitive
business information as the Department may make it available to the
public. The project summary must not exceed 1 page when printed using
standard 8.5" by 11" paper with 1" margins (top, bottom, left and right)
with font not smaller than 11 point. Save this information in a file
named "Summary.pdf," and click on "Add Optional Other Attachment" to
attach.

**SF 424 A Excel, Budget Information -- Non-Construction Programs File**

You must provide a separate budget for each year of support requested
and a cumulative budget for the total project period. Use the SF 424 A
Excel, "Budget Information -- Non Construction Programs" form on the
Applicant and Recipient Page at
[http://grants.pr.doe.gov](http://grants.pr.doe.gov/). You may request
funds under any of the Object Class Categories as long as the item and
amount are necessary to perform the proposed work, meet all the criteria
for allowability under the applicable Federal cost principles, and are
not prohibited by the funding restrictions in this announcement (See
PART IV, G). Save the information in a [single]{.underline} file named
"SF424A.xls," and click on "Add Optional Other Attachment" to attach.

**Budget Justification File**

You must justify the costs proposed in each Object Class Category/Cost
Classification category (e.g., identify key persons and personnel
categories and the estimated costs for each person or category; provide
a list of equipment and cost of each item; identify proposed
subaward/consultant work and cost of each subaward/consultant; describe
purpose of proposed travel, number of travelers and number of travel
days; list general categories of supplies and amount for each category;
and provide any other information you wish to support your budget).
Provide the name of your cognizant/oversight agency, if you have one,
and the name and phone number of the individual responsible for
negotiating your indirect rates. If cost sharing is required, provide an
explanation of the source, nature, amount and availability of any
proposed cost sharing. Save this information in a single file named
"Budget.pdf," and click on "Add Optional Other Attachment" to attach.

**Subaward Budget File(s)**

You must provide a separate budget (i.e., budget for each budget year
and a cumulative budget) for each subawardee that is expected to perform
work estimated to be more than \$100,000 or 50 percent of the total work
effort (which ever is less). Use the SF 424 A Excel for Non Construction
Programs or the SF 424 C Excel for Construction Programs. These forms
are found on the Applicant and Recipient Page at
[http://grants.pr.doe.gov](http://grants.pr.doe.gov/). Save each
Subaward budget in a separate file. Use up to 10 letters of the
subawardee's name (plus .xls) as the file name (e.g., ucla.xls or
energyres.xls), and click on "Add Optional Other Attachment" to attach.

**Certifications/Assurances for Use with SF 424 File**

You must complete and provide the "Certifications and Assurances for Use
with SF 424" form on the Applicant and Recipient Page at
[http://grants.pr.doe.gov](http://grants.pr.doe.gov/). Submission of an
electronic application through Grants.gov constitutes the submission of
a signed document. Type the name of the person reponsible for providing
the certifications and assurances in the signature block and save as a
pdf file. Do not submit a scanned copy of the form. Name the file
"Certs.pdf," and click on "Add Optional Other Attachment" to attach.

**Commitment Letters from Third Parties Contributing to Cost Sharing**
**File** {Select **one** if cost sharing is required}

If a third party, (i.e., a party other than the organization submitting
the application) proposes to provide all or part of the required cost
sharing, the applicant must include a letter from the third party
stating that it is committed to providing a specific minimum dollar
amount of cost sharing. The letter should also identify the proposed
cost sharing (e.g., cash, services, and/or property) to be contributed.
Letters must be signed by the person authorized to commit the
expenditure of funds by the entity. Provide this information in a single
file named "CLTP.pdf" and click on "Add Optional Other Attachment" to
attach.

**Biographical Sketch File**

Provide a biographical sketch for each key person proposed, including
subawardees and consultants if they meet the definition of key person. A
key person is any individual who contributes in a substantive,
measurable way to the execution of the project. Save all biographical
sketches in a [single]{.underline} file named "bio.pdf" and click on
"Add Optional Other Attachment" to attach. The biographical information
for each person must not exceed 2 pages when printed on 8.5" by 11"
paper with 1 inch margins (top, bottom, left, and right) with font not
smaller than 11 point and must include:

*[Education and Training]{.underline}*. Undergraduate, graduate and
postdoctoral training, provide institution, major/area, degree and year.

*[Professional Experience]{.underline}*: Beginning with the current
position list, in chronological order, professional/academic positions
with a brief description.

*[Publications]{.underline}*. Provide a list of up to10 publications
most closely related to the proposed project. For each publication,
identify the names of all authors (in the same sequence in which they
appear in the publication), the article title, book or journal title,
volume number, page numbers, year of publication, and website address if
available electronically.

Patents, copyrights and software systems developed may be provided in
addition to or substituted for publications.

*[Synergistic Activities]{.underline}*. List no more than 5 professional
and scholarly activities related to the effort proposed.

> **[Budget for DOE/NNSA Federally Funded Research and Development
> Center (FFRDC) Contractor, if applicable]{.underline}.** {Select if an
> FFRDC contractor may perform a portion of the work}.

If a DOE/NNSA FFRDC contractor is to perform a portion of the work, you
must provide a DOE Field Work Proposal in accordance with the
requirements in DOE Order 412.1 Work Authorization System. This order
and the DOE Field Work Proposal form are available at
[http://grants.pr.doe.gov](http://www.grants.pr.doe.gov/). Use up to 10
letters of the FFRDC name (plus .pdf) as the file name (e.g., lanl.pdf
or anl.pdf), and click on "Add Attachments" in Field 11 to attach.

> **Reference Checks on Federal Awards**

Provide the information below for at least five, and no more than eight,
federal awards that were received by either your organization or
principal investigator in the last five years for technologies relevant
to this announcement, with award values in excess of \$500,000. If
applicant has fewer than five awards meeting this criteria, first submit
those that meet the criteria, and for the remainder, provide information
for federal awards over \$500,000 received by either the organization or
principal investigator for all technologies in the last five years.

> The following information is required for each federal award: 1) AWARD
> TITLE; 2) INSTRUMENT NUMBER; 3) TOTAL AWARD VALUE (\$); 4) PERIOD OF
> PERFORMANCE (Dates); 5) APPLICANT\'S PROJECT DIRECTOR (Name, Address,
> Telephone Number \[including area code\]); and 6) FEDERAL AGENCY
> MAKING AWARD (Agency Name, Federal Program Manager, Federal Program
> Manager's Address, Federal Program Manager's Telephone Number
> \[including area code\]).

2.  **SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities**

3.  

If applicable, complete SF- LLL. Applicability: If any funds other than
Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person
for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any
agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an
employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the
grant/cooperative agreement, you must complete and submit Standard
Form - LLL, \"Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying."

**Summary of Required Forms/Files**

> Your application must include the following documents:

+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > **Name of Document**            | > **Format**   | > **File Name** |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > Application for Federal         | > PureEdge     | > N/A           |
| > Assistance -- SF424             | > Form         |                 |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > Other Attachments Form: Attach  | > PureEdge     | > N/A           |
| > the following files to this     | > Form         |                 |
| > form:                           |                |                 |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > Project Narrative File          | > PDF          | > Project.pdf   |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > Project Summary/Abstract File   | > PDF          | > Summary.pdf   |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > SF 424A File - Budget           | > Excel        | > SF424A.xls    |
| > Information for                 |                |                 |
| > Non-Construction Programs       |                |                 |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > Budget Narrative File           | > PDF          | > Budget.pdf    |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > Subaward Budget File(s)         | > Excel        | > See           |
|                                   |                | > Instructions  |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > Certifications/Assurances File  | > PDF          | > Certs.pdf     |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > Commitment Letters from Third   | > PDF          | > CLTP.pdf      |
| > Parties Contributing to Cost    |                |                 |
| > Sharing File, if applicable.    |                |                 |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > Biographical Sketch File        | > PDF          | > Bio.pdf       |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > Budget for FFRDC Contractor, if | > PDF          | > Name.pdf      |
| > applicable                      |                |                 |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+
| > SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying   | > PureEdge     | > N/A           |
| > Activities, if applicable.      | > Form         |                 |
+-----------------------------------+----------------+-----------------+

## D. SUBMISSIONS FROM SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS. 

> {Select one}
>
> Submission instructions for successful applicants will be provided
> after notification of selection.

## E. SUBMISSION DATES AND TIMES. 

> **1. Pre-application Due Date.**
>
> {Select one}
>
> Pre-applications are not required.
>
> **2. Application Due Date**. *Required*
>
> {Select **one**}
>
> Applications must be received by April 5, 2006, not later than 8:00 PM
> Eastern Time. You are encouraged to transmit your application well
> before the deadline. APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE DEADLINE WILL NOT
> BE REVIEWED OR CONSIDERED FOR AWARD.

## F. INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW {Select one}: 

This program is not subject to Executive Order 12372 --
Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.

> []{#__RefHeading___Toc112565994 .anchor}**G. FUNDING RESTRICTIONS.\
> **[Cost Principles]{.underline}. Costs must be allowable in accordance
> with the applicable Federal cost principles referenced in 10 CFR part
> 600.
>
> [Pre-award Costs]{.underline}**.** Recipients may charge to an award
> resulting from this announcement pre-award costs that were incurred
> within the ninety (90) calendar day period immediately preceding the
> effective date of the award, if the costs are allowable in accordance
> with the applicable Federal cost principles referenced in 10 CFR part
> 600. Recipients must obtain the prior approval of the contracting
> officer for any pre-award costs that are for periods greater than this
> 90 day calendar period.
>
> Pre-award costs are incurred at the applicant's risk. DOE is under no
> obligation to reimburse such costs if for any reason the applicant
> does not receive an award or if the award is made for a lesser amount
> than the applicant expected.

## H. OTHER SUBMISSION AND REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS 

> **1. Where to Submit.**
>
> {Select **one**}
>
> **[APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED THROUGH GRANTS.GOV TO BE CONSIDERED
> FOR AWARD]{.underline}.** Submit electronic applications through the
> "Apply for Grants" function at
> [www.Grants.gov](http://www.Grants.gov/). If you have problems
> completing the registration process or submitting your application,
> call Grants.gov at 1-800-518-4726 or send an email to
> [support@grants.gov](mailto:support@gratns.gov).

2.  **Registration Process.** (Required)

> {Select **one**}
>
> You must COMPLETE the one-time registration process ([all
> steps]{.underline}) before you can submit your first application
> through Grants.gov (See
> [www.grants.gov/GetStarted](http://www.grants.gov/GetStarted)). **We
> recommend that you start this process at least two weeks before the
> application due date**. It may take 14 days or more to complete the
> entire process. Use the Grants.gov Organizational Registration
> Checklists at <http://www.grants.gov/assets/OrganizationRegCheck.doc>
> to guide you through the process. [IMPORTANT]{.underline}: During the
> CCR registration process, you will be asked to designate an E-Business
> Point of Contact (EBIZ POC). The EBIZ POC must obtain a special
> password called "Marketing Partner identification Number" (MPIN).

# PART V - APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

## A. CRITERIA 

> **Initial Review Criteria**.

-   Select **one**:Prior to a comprehensive merit evaluation, DOE will
    perform an initial review to determine that (1) the applicant is
    eligible for an award; (2) the information required by the
    announcement has been submitted; (3) all mandatory requirements are
    satisfied; and (4) the proposed project is responsive to the
    objectives of the funding opportunity announcement.

> **Merit Review Criteria.**
>
> **Criterion 1: Technical Concept Weight: \[50%\]**

-   Perceived value of the project in advancing the state of the art of
    fuel cell technologies for automotive and stationary applications.
    Automotive applications or combined automotive/stationary
    applications will be given higher preference than stationary
    applications alone. (Excluding Topic 7)

-   Clarity of understanding by the Applicant of fundamental principles
    and limitations.

-   Degree to which barriers are identified and addressed with viable
    plans for resolution including consideration of the impact on other
    fuel cell system components.

-   Perceived likelihood of overall technical success.

> **Criterion 2: Work Plan/Statement of Objectives Weight: \[30%\]**

-   The adequacy, clarity, and completeness of the work plan and
    Statement of Objectives.

-   The soundness and likelihood of success of the proposed approach,
    including the ability to resolve challenges, achieve the goals and
    objectives, and ensure safety.

-   The approach to managing the team and the commitment of the team
    members.

-   The adequacy and reasonableness of the work task structure,
    milestones, and schedule.

-   The appropriateness of GO/NO-GO decision points and decision
    criteria.

> **Criterion 3: Qualifications and Facilities Weight: \[20%\]**

-   The adequacy of the education, professional training,
    technical/business related skills, and work experience of the
    Principal Investigator and other key personnel.

-   Capabilities of the Applicant and participants to comprehensively
    address all aspects of the proposed project.

-   The adequacy of the level of participation by project participants.

-   The adequacy and reasonableness of the project team.

-   The adequacy of the Applicant's proposed facilities, and those of
    subcontractors.

-   The reasonableness of any request for new facilities and/or
    equipment.

> **Other Selection Factors.**
>
> {Select **one** and complete}
>
> The selection official will consider the following factors in the
> selection process:

-   Past Performance

-   Technological diversity of projects within a topic area

-   Topic area diversity

-   Best value where the selection official weighs the project's
    technical merit, planned accomplishments, and total required DOE
    funds to determine the "best value" to DOE.

## B. REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS. 

> **1. [Merit Review.]{.underline} {Select one}**

-   Applications that pass the initial review will be subjected to a
    merit review in accordance with the guidance provided in the
    "Department of Energy Merit Review Guide for Financial Assistance
    and Unsolicited Proposals." This guide is available under Financial
    Assistance, Regulations and Guidance at
    <http://professionals.pr.doe.gov/ma5/ma-5web.nsf/?Open>.

**2. [Selection]{.underline}.**

{Select **one**}

-   The Selection Official will consider the merit review
    recommendation, program policy factors, and the amount of funds
    available.

-   DOE reserves the right to conduct an independent third party review
    of financial capability for applicants that are selected for
    negotiation of award (including personal credit information of the
    principal(s) of a small business if there is insufficient
    information to determine financial capability of the organization).

**3. [Discussions and Award]{.underline}.**

{Select **one**}

-   The Government may enter into discussions with a selected applicant
    for any reason deemed necessary, including but not limited to: (1)
    the budget is not appropriate or reasonable for the requirement; (2)
    only a portion of the application is selected for award; (3) the
    Government needs additional information to determine that the
    recipient is capable of complying with the requirements in 10 CFR
    part 600; and/or (4) special terms and conditions are required.
    Failure to resolve satisfactorily the issues identified by the
    Government will preclude award to the applicant.

## C. ANTICIPATED NOTICE OF SELECTION AND AWARD DATES. 

> {Select **one**}

-    anticipates notifying applicants selected for award by **September
    30, 2006** and making awards by **December 31, 2006.**

# PART VI - AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

## A. AWARD NOTICES. 

1.  **Notice of Selection.**

2.  

> {Select **one**}
>
> will notify applicants selected for award. This notice of selection is
> not an authorization to begin performance. (See Part IV.G with respect
> to the allowability of pre-award costs.)
>
> Organizations whose applications have not been selected will be
> advised as promptly as possible. This notice will explain why the
> application was not selected.

**2. Notice of Award.**

3.  

> {Select **one**}
>
> A Notice of Financial Assistance Award issued by the contracting
> officer is the authorizing award document. It normally includes,
> either as an attachment or by reference: 1. Special Terms and
> Conditions; 2. Applicable program regulations, if any; 3. Application
> as approved by DOE/NNSA.; 4. DOE assistance regulations at 10 CFR part
> 600, or, for Federal Demonstration Partnership (FDP) institutions, the
> FDP terms and conditions; 5. National Policy Assurances To Be
> Incorporated As Award Terms; 6. Budget Summary; and 7. Federal
> Assistance Reporting Checklist, which identifies the reporting
> requirements.

## B. ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTS. 

> **1.** **Administrative Requirements.**
>
> The administrative requirements for DOE grants and cooperative
> agreements are contained in 10 CFR part 600 (See:
> [http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov](http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/)), except for
> grants made to Federal Demonstration Partnership (FDP) institutions.
> The FDP terms and conditions and DOE FDP agency specific terms and
> conditions are located on the National Science Foundation web site at
> <http://www.nsf.gov/awards/managing/fed_dem_part.jsp>.
>
> **2. Special Terms and Conditions and National Policy Requirements.**
>
> **Special Terms and Conditions and National Policy Requirements**.
>
> The DOE Special Terms and Conditions for Use in Most Grants and
> Cooperative Agreements are located at
> [http://grants.pr.doe.gov](http://www.grants.pr.doe.gov/). The
> National Policy AssurancesTo Be Incorporated As Award Terms are
> located at [http://grants.pr.doe.gov](http://www.grants.pr.doe.gov/).
>
> **Intellectual Property Provisions**.
>
> The standard DOE financial assistance intellectual property provisions
> applicable to the various types of recipients are located at
> <http://www.gc.doe.gov/techtrans/sipp_matrix.html>.
>
> **Statement of Substantial Involvement**.

-   Either a grant or cooperative agreement may be awarded under this
    program announcement. If the award is a cooperative agreement, the
    DOE Specialist and DOE Project Officer will negotiate a Statement of
    Substantial Involvement prior to award.

## C. REPORTING. 

> Reporting requirements are identified on the Federal Assistance
> Reporting Checklist, DOE F 4600.2, attached to the award agreement.
> See
> http://www.go.doe.gov/PDFs/4600-2.pdfhttp://www.eerego.energydoe.gov/golden/PDFs/4600-2.pdf
> for the proposed Checklist for this program**.**

# PART VII - QUESTIONS/AGENCY CONTACTS 

## A. QUESTIONS 

> Questions regarding the content of the announcement must be submitted
> through the "Submit Question" feature of the DOE Industry Interactive
> Procurement System (IIPS) at
> [http://e-center.doe.gov](http://e-center.doe.gov/). Locate the
> program announcement on IIPS and then click on the "Submit Question"
> button. Enter required information. You will receive an electronic
> notification that your question has been answered. DOE/NNSA will try
> to respond to a question within 3 business days, unless a similar
> question and answer have already been posted on the website.
>
> Questions relating to the registration process, system requirements,
> how an application form works, or the submittal process must be
> directed to Grants.gov at 1-800-518-4726 or <support@grants.gov>.
> DOE/NNSA cannot answer these questions.

## B. AGENCY CONTACT 

> Name: Tammie Lawler
>
> E-mail: fuelcells@go.doe.gov
>
> FAX : 303-275-4754

# PART VIII - OTHER INFORMATION 

## A. MODIFICATIONS. 

Notices of any modifications to this announcement will be posted on
Grants.gov and the DOE Industry Interactive Procurement System (IIPS).
You can receive an email when a modification or an announcement message
is posted by joining the mailing list for this announcement through the
link in IIPS. When you download the application at Grants.gov, you can
also register to receive notifications of changes through Grants.gov.

## B. GOVERNMENT RIGHT TO REJECT OR NEGOTIATE. 

DOE reserves the right, without qualification, to reject any or all
applications received in response to this announcement and to select any
application, in whole or in part, as a basis for negotiation and/or
award.

## C. COMMITMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS. 

The Contracting Officer is the only individual who can make awards or
commit the Government to the expenditure of public funds. A commitment
by other than the Contracting Officer, either explicit or implied, is
invalid.

## D. PROPRIETARY APPLICATION INFORMATION. 

> Patentable ideas, trade secrets, proprietary or confidentional
> commercial or financial information, disclosure of which may harm the
> applicant, should be included in an application only when such
> information is necessary to convey an understanding of the proposed
> project. The use and disclosure of such data may be restricted,
> provided the applicant includes the following legend on the first page
> of the project narrative and specifies the pages of the application
> which are to be restricted:
>
> "The data contained in pages \_\_\_\_\_ of this application have been
> submitted in confidence and contain trade secrets or proprietary
> information, and such data shall be used or disclosed only for
> evaluation purposes, provided that if this applicant receives an award
> as a result of or in connection with the submission of this
> application, DOE shall have the right to use or disclose the data
> herein to the extent provided in the award. This restriction does not
> limit the government's right to use or disclose data obtained without
> restriction from any source, including the applicant."
>
> To protect such data, each line or paragraph on the pages containing
> such data must be specifically identified and marked with a legend
> similar to the following:
>
> "The following contains proprietary information that (name of
> applicant) requests not be released to persons outside the Government,
> except for purposes of review and evaluation."

## E. EVALUATION AND ADMINISTRATION BY NON-FEDERAL PERSONNEL. 

> In conducting the merit review evaluation, the Government may seek the
> advice of qualified non‑Federal personnel as reviewers. The Government
> may also use non-Federal personnel to conduct routine,
> nondiscretionary administrative activities. The applicant, by
> submitting its application, consents to the use of non-Federal
> reviewers/administrators. Non-Federal reviewers must sign conflict of
> interest and non-disclosure agreements prior to reviewing an
> application. Non-Federal personnel conducting administrative
> activities must sign a non-disclosure agreement.
>
> {Select **all** that apply}

## F. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DEVELOPED UNDER THIS PROGRAM. {*Required if the program is for RD&D* or if technical data are expected to be first produced or specified to be delivered under an award.} 

> [Patent Rights]{.underline}. The government will have certain
> statutory rights in an invention that is conceived or first actually
> reduced to practice under a DOE award. 42 U.S.C. 5908 provides that
> title to such inventions vests in the United States, except where 35
> U.S.C. 202 provides otherwise for nonprofit organizations or small
> business firms. However, the Secretary of Energy may waive all or any
> part of the rights of the United States subject to certain conditions.
> (See "Notice of Right to Request Patent Waiver" in paragraph G below.)
>
> [Rights in Technical Data]{.underline}. Normally, the government has
> unlimited rights in technical data created under a DOE agreement.
> Delivery or third party licensing of proprietary software or data
> developed solely at private expense will not normally be required
> except as specifically negotiated in a particular agreement to satisfy
> DOE's own needs or to insure the commercialization of technology
> developed under a DOE agreement.
>
> Select and complete **only** if the program is covered under special
> protected data statutes (e.g. EPACT 1992, SBIR, Energy Policy Act
> 2005}
>
> [Special Protected Data Statutes]{.underline}. This program is covered
> by a special protected data statute. The provisions of the statute
> provide for the protection from public disclosure, for a period of up
> to five years after the development of the information, of data that
> would be trade secret, or commercial or financial information that is
> privileged or confidential, if the information had been obtained from
> a non-Federal party. Generally, the provision entitled, Rights in Data
> − Programs Covered Under Special Protected Data Statutes, (10 CFR 600
> Appendix A to Subpart D), would apply to an award made under this
> announcement. This provision will identify data or categories of data
> first produced in the performance of the award that will be made
> available to the public, notwithstanding the statutory authority to
> withhold data from public dissemination, and will also identify data
> that will be recognized by the parties as protected data.

## G. NOTICE OF RIGHT TO REQUEST PATENT WAIVER. 

*Required if the program is for R&DD and large for-profit and foreign
organizations are eligible to apply.*Applicants may request a waiver of
all or any part of the rights of the United States in inventions
conceived or first actually reduced to practice in performance of an
agreement as a result of this announcement, in advance of or within 30
days after the effective date of the award. Even if such advance waiver
is not requested or the request is denied, the recipient will have a
continuing right under the award to request a waiver of the rights of
the United States in identified inventions, i.e., individual inventions
conceived or first actually reduced to practice in performance of the
award. Any patent waiver that may be granted is subject to certain terms
and conditions in 10 CFR 784.

> Domestic small businesses and domestic nonprofit organizations will
> receive the patent rights clause at 37 CFR 401.14, i.e., the
> implementation of the Bayh-Dole Act. This clause permits domestic
> small business and domestic nonprofit organizations to retain title to
> subject inventions. Therefore, small businesses and nonprofit
> organizations do not need to request a waiver.

## H. NOTICE REGARDING ELIGIBLE/INELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES. 

> *Required if the purpose of the program is to promote specific energy
> technologies, sources or concepts.*Eligible activities under this
> program include those which describe and promote the understanding of
> scientific and technical aspects of specific energy technologies, but
> not those which encourage or support political activities such as the
> collection and dissemination of information related to potential,
> planned or pending legislation.

# APPENDIX A -- DEFINITIONS

> **"Amendment"** means a revision to a solicitation.
>
> \"**Applicant**\" means the legal entity or individual signing the
> Application. This entity or individual may be one organization or a
> single entity representing a group of organizations (such as a
> Consortium) that has chosen to submit a single Application in response
> to a solicitation.
>
> \"**Application**\" means the documentation submitted in response to a
> solicitation. NOTE: Application is referred to as Proposal in IIPS.
>
> **"Authorized Organization Representative (AOR)"** is the person with
> assigned privileges who is authorized to submit grant applications
> through Grants.gov on behalf of an organization. The privileges are
> assigned by the organization's E-Business Point of Contact designated
> in the CCR.
>
> \"**Award**\" means the written documentation executed by a DOE
> Contracting Officer, after an Applicant is selected, which contains
> the negotiated terms and conditions for providing Financial Assistance
> to the Applicant. A Financial Assistance Award may be either a Grant
> or a Cooperative Agreement.
>
> \"**Budget**\" means the cost expenditure plan submitted in the
> Application, including both the DOE contribution and the Applicant
> Cost Share.
>
> \"**Consortium (plural consortia)**\" means the group of organizations
> or individuals that have chosen to submit a single Application in
> response to a solicitation.
>
> \"**Contracting Officer**\" means the DOE official authorized to
> execute Awards on behalf of DOE and who is responsible for the
> business management and non-program aspects of the Financial
> Assistance process.
>
> \"**Cooperative Agreement**\" means a Financial Assistance instrument
> used by DOE to transfer money or property when the principal purpose
> of the transaction is to accomplish a public purpose of support or
> stimulation authorized by Federal statute, and Substantial Involvement
> (see definition below) is anticipated between DOE and the Applicant
> during the performance of the contemplated activity.
>
> \"**Cost Sharing**\" means the respective share of Total Project Costs
> to be contributed by the Applicant and by DOE. The percentage of
> Applicant Cost Share is to be applied to the Total Project Cost (i.e.,
> the sum of Applicant plus DOE Cost Shares) rather than to the DOE
> contribution alone.
>
> **"Central Contractor Registry (CCR)"** is the primary database which
> collects, validates, stores and disseminates data in support of agency
> missions. Funding Opportunity Announcements which require application
> submission through Grants.gov require that the organization first be
> registered in the CCR at <http://www.grants.gov/CCRRegister>.
>
> **"Credential Provider"** is an organization that validates the
> electronic identity of an individual through electronic credentials,
> PINS, and passwords for Grants.gov. Funding Opportunity Announcements
> which require application submission through Grants.gov require that
> the individual applying on behalf of an organization first be
> registered with the Credential Provider at
> <http://www.grants.gov/CredentialProvider>.
>
> **"Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number"** is a unique
> nine-character identification number issued by Dun and Bradstreet
> (D&B). Organizations must have a DUNS number prior to registering in
> the CCR. Call 1-866-705-5711 to receive one free of charge.
> <http://www.grants.gov/RequestaDUNS>
>
> **"E-Business Point of Contact (POC)"** is the individual who is
> designated as the Electronic Business Point of Contact in the CCR
> registration. This person is the sole authority of the organization
> with the capability of designating or revoking an individual's ability
> to submit grant applications on behalf of their organization through
> Grants.gov. <http://www.grants.gov/assets/EBIZRegCheck.doc>
>
> **"E-Find"** is a Grants.gov webpage where you can search for Federal
> Funding Opportunities in FedGrants.
> <http://www.grants.gov/FindGrantOpportunities?search=basic>
>
> **"Fedgrants.gov"** is the official website where you can locate
> Federal Funding Opportunities
> <http://fedgrants.gov/Applicants/index.html>.
>
> \"**Financial Assistance**\" means the transfer of money or property
> to an Applicant or Participant to accomplish a public purpose of
> support authorized by Federal statute through Grants or Cooperative
> Agreements and sub-awards. For DOE, it does not include direct loans,
> loan guarantees, price guarantees, purchase agreements, Cooperative
> Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs), or any other type of
> financial incentive instrument.
>
> **"Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC)"** means a
> research laboratory as defined by Federal Acquisition Regulation
> 35.017.
>
> **"Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA)"** is a publicly available
> document by which a Federal agency makes known its intentions to award
> discretionary grants or cooperative agreements, usually as a result of
> competition for funds. Funding opportunity announcements may be known
> as program announcements, notices of funding availability,
> solicitations, or other names depending on the agency and type of
> program.
>
> **\"Grant\"** means a Financial Assistance instrument used by DOE to
> transfer money or property when the principal purpose of the
> transaction is to accomplish a public purpose of support or
> stimulation authorized by Federal statute, and no Substantial
> Involvement is anticipated between DOE and the Applicant during the
> performance of the contemplated activity.
>
> **"Grants.gov"** is the "storefront" web portal which allows
> organizations to electronically find and apply for competitive grant
> opportunities from all Federal grant-making agencies. Grants.gov is
> THE single access point for over 900 grant programs offered by the 26
> Federal grant-making agencies.
> [http://www.grants.gov](http://www.grants.gov/)
>
> **"Industry Interactive Procurement System (IIPS)"** is DOE's
> Internet-based procurement system which allows access to DOE's
> business opportunities database, allows user registration and
> submittal of Applications: <http://e-center.doe.gov/>.
>
> \"**Key Personnel**\" means the individuals who will have significant
> roles in planning and implementing the proposed Project on the part of
> the Applicant and Participants, including FFRDCs.
>
> **"Marketing Partner Identification Number (MPIN)"** is a very
> important password designated by your organization when registering in
> CCR. The E-Business Point of Contact will need the MPIN to login to
> Grants.gov to assign privileges to the individual(s) authorized to
> submit applications on behalf of your organization. The MPIN must have
> 9 digits containing at least one alpha character (must be in capital
> letters) and one number (no spaces or special characters permitted).
>
> \"**Participant**\" for purposes of this Solicitation only, means any
> entity, except the Applicant substantially involved in a Consortium,
> or other business arrangement (including all parties to the
> Application at any tier), responding to the Solicitation.
>
> \"**Project**\" means the set of activities described in an
> Application, State plan, or other document that is approved by DOE for
> Financial Assistance (whether such Financial Assistance represents all
> or only a portion of the support necessary to carry out those
> activities).
>
> **"Proposal"** is the term used in IIPS meaning the documentation
> submitted in response to a solicitation. Also see Application.
>
> **"Pure Edge Viewer"** is a small, free program which allows you to
> access, complete and submit applications electronically and securely
> through Grants.gov. You will not be able to access, complete, or
> submit an application through Grants.gov, unless the Pure Edge Viewer
> is downloaded on your computer.
> <http://www.grants.gov/DownloadViewer>.
>
> **"Recipient"** means the organization, individual, or other entity
> that receives a Financial Assistance Award from DOE, is financially
> accountable for the use of any DOE funds or property provided for the
> performance of the Project, and is legally responsible for carrying
> out the terms and condition of the award.
>
> \"**Selection**\" means the determination by the DOE Selection
> Official that negotiations take place for certain Projects with the
> intent of awarding a Financial Assistance instrument.
>
> **\"Selection Official\"** means the DOE official designated to select
> Applications for negotiation toward Award under a subject
> solicitation.
>
> \"**Substantial Involvement**\" means involvement on the part of the
> Government. DOE\'s involvement may include shared responsibility for
> the performance of the Project; providing technical assistance or
> guidance which the Applicant is to follow; and the right to intervene
> in the conduct or performance of the Project. Such involvement will be
> negotiated with each Applicant prior to signing any agreement.
>
> \"**Total Project Cost**\" means all the funds to complete the effort
> proposed by the Applicant, including DOE funds (including direct
> funding of any FFRDC) plus all other funds that will be committed by
> the Applicant as Cost Sharing.

# APPENDIX B

# 

# APPENDIX B Reserved and intentionally not used.

# APPENDIX C -- REFERENCE CHECKS ON FEDERAL AWARDS

> **Reference Checks on Federal Awards**

Provide the information below for at least five, and no more than eight,
federal awards that were received by either your organization or
principal investigator in the last five years for technologies relevant
to this announcement, with award values in excess of \$500,000. If
applicant has fewer than five awards meeting this criteria, first submit
those that meet the criteria, and for the remainder, provide information
for federal awards over \$500,000 received by either the organization or
principal investigator for all technologies in the last five years.

> The following information is required for each federal award: 1) AWARD
> TITLE; 2) INSTRUMENT NUMBER; 3) TOTAL AWARD VALUE (\$); 4) PERIOD OF
> PERFORMANCE (Dates); 5) APPLICANT\'S PROJECT DIRECTOR (Name, Address,
> Telephone Number \[including area code\]); and 6) FEDERAL AGENCY
> MAKING AWARD (Agency Name, Federal Program Manager, Federal Program
> Manager's Address, Federal Program Manager's Telephone Number
> \[including area code\]).
>
> **APPENDIX D - ACCELERATED TEST PROTOCOLS TO DEMONSTRATE 5500 HOUR
> CATALYST DURABILITY.**
>
> ![](media/image2.wmf){width="5.763194444444444in"
> height="4.3069444444444445in"}![](media/image3.wmf){width="5.8493055555555555in"
> height="4.452083333333333in"}
>
> ![](media/image4.wmf){width="5.7659722222222225in"
> height="4.41875in"}![](media/image5.wmf){width="5.7625in"
> height="4.365972222222222in"}![](media/image6.wmf){width="5.761111111111111in"
> height="4.40625in"}![](media/image7.wmf){width="5.844444444444444in"
> height="4.396527777777778in"}![](media/image8.wmf){width="5.684027777777778in"
> height="4.3284722222222225in"}![](media/image9.wmf){width="5.600694444444445in"
> height="4.21875in"}![](media/image10.wmf){width="5.934722222222222in"
> height="4.464583333333334in"}![](media/image11.wmf){width="5.927777777777778in"
> height="4.4in"}![](media/image12.wmf){width="5.934722222222222in"
> height="4.411111111111111in"}![](media/image13.wmf){width="5.850694444444445in"
> height="4.41875in"}
>
> ![](media/image14.wmf){width="5.934722222222222in"
> height="4.464583333333334in"}![](media/image15.wmf){width="5.929166666666666in"
> height="4.440972222222222in"}![](media/image16.wmf){width="5.7652777777777775in"
> height="4.375694444444444in"}![](media/image17.wmf){width="5.929861111111111in"
> height="4.461111111111111in"}![](media/image18.wmf){width="5.929861111111111in"
> height="4.4430555555555555in"}![](media/image19.wmf){width="5.929861111111111in"
> height="4.461111111111111in"}