ContractSpecial Notice

TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: Hydrogen Contamination Detector

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY S-133399
Response Deadline
Feb 13, 2026
Deadline passed
Days Remaining
0
Closed
Set-Aside
Full & Open
Notice Type
Special Notice

Contract Opportunity Analysis

The Department of Energy is offering a technology licensing opportunity for a Hydrogen Contamination Detector (HCD) developed by scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). This innovative device addresses the critical need for real-time detection of harmful contaminants in hydrogen fuel, which can damage sensitive fuel-cell systems, by utilizing a patented internal water reservoir that allows it to function effectively in dry hydrogen environments. The HCD is designed to enhance the reliability and safety of hydrogen fueling infrastructure, supporting the growth of a consumer-friendly hydrogen economy. Interested parties can reach out to Kathleen McDonald or Lindsay Augustyn at licensing@lanl.gov for further information regarding licensing agreements, as the technology is protected under US Patent No. 10,490,833 B1 and is currently at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6.

Classification Codes

NAICS Code
334516
Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing
PSC Code
6635
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES TESTING AND INSPECTION

Solicitation Documents

1 Files
FCI-tech-summary-visual-HCD.jpg
JPEG231 KBJan 22, 2026
AI Summary
Los Alamos National Laboratory has developed a Hydrogen Contamination Detector (HCD) to address the challenge of tiny impurities in hydrogen fuel damaging sensitive fuel-cell systems. This invention provides a real-time solution for detecting and tracking contaminants, overcoming the limitations of expensive, lab-based instruments that cause delays. The HCD works in dry hydrogen due to its patented internal water reservoir and wicking mechanism, informing operators of contamination in near real-time. This technology is applicable across various markets, including hydrogen production and distribution, fueling infrastructure, fuel-cell vehicle manufacturers, and testing and safety organizations. The invention is protected under US Patent 10,490,833 B1 and is at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6.

Related Contract Opportunities

Project Timeline

postedOriginal Solicitation PostedJan 22, 2026
deadlineResponse DeadlineFeb 13, 2026
expiryArchive DateFeb 12, 2027

Agency Information

Department
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Sub-Tier
ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OF
Office
TRIAD - DOE CONTRACTOR

Point of Contact

Name
Kathleen McDonald

Place of Performance

Los Alamos, New Mexico, UNITED STATES

Official Sources