U.S. Department of Energy, Chicago Operations Office, 9800 South Cass Avenue, Argonne, Illinois 60439

A -- RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF MULTI-FUEL REFORMERS FOR FUEL CELLS USED IN TRANSPORTATION Contact, Roberta D. Schroeder, Contract Specialist, (708) 252-2708. Patricia Schuneman, Contracting Officer, (708) 252-2956. The Department of Energy (DOE) intends to noncompetitively negotiate a follow-on contract modification with Arthur D. Little, Inc., Cambridge, MA on a sole source basis in accordance with FAR 6.302-1(a) for a twelve month period for further research, development, and demonstration of multi-fuel reformers for fuel cells used in transportation. Phase I studied various reformer/fuel cell systems and recommended development of an autothermal reformer and a partial oxidation reformer (POX) in Phase II. The Phase II program focused on an ethanol reformer for integration with the phosphoric acid fuel cell used by DOE's fuel cell bus. During the current phase of this program a 50-kw ethanol-optimized partial oxidation (POX) fuel processor is being developed and tested, using off-shelf components and catalysts. The contractor has successfully accomplished the objectives identified for the initial phases of the work. Based on results thus far and subsequent program requirements, DOE intends to continue this work. The new work entails development of a complete 40-kW partial oxidation fuel processor, using a petroleum-based fuel, with all necessary components; provide proof-of-concept level investigation of efficiencey, emissions and transient response, using a breadboard fuel processor as a test stand; and validate fuel processor operationon a fuel that can be delivered using the current petroleum infrastructure. The contractor must provide a team of technical personnel experienced in the research, design, development, fabrication, and testing of multi-fuel reformers for fuel cells, and must also be willing to provide substantial cost sharing. DOE has concluded that only one responsible source is available and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements because this effort is a continuation of an original R&D effort and the contractor's experience and capabilities from this earlier effort are considered necessary for the successful and timely completion of this follow-on effort. This is not a formal solicitation. However, any responsible source qualified to perform the work within the schedule may respond within 45 calendar days from th publication date of this synopsis by furnishing in writing to the office listed above (1) a clear indication of its demonstrated experience in developing a partial oxidation fuel processor system at the level of complexity required for this project (incluing past involvement and accomplishments in similar programs during the past five years); (2) a statement of its relevant professional qualifications (including number of employees and technical qualifications of engineers, scientists and technical personnel); (3) a description of the relevant facilities and special equipment available for this project; (4) any other capabilities for performing all the required work for this project; and (5) evidence of its willingness to provide substantial cost sharing. See numbered note 22. (207)

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