Topic L: Plant HYperaccumulators TO MIne Nickel-Enriched Soils (PHYTOMINES)
ID: 1Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Topic L: Plant HYperaccumulators TO MIne Nickel-Enriched Soils (PHYTOMINES)

Agency

Department of EnergyARPA-E

Program

Type: BOTHPhase: BOTHYear: 2024

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2597057

Additional Information

https://arpa-e-foa.energy.gov/Default.aspx#FoaId440dd93d-dd8d-48e9-bbc6-7112453728c2
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Mar 21, 2024 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open Mar 21, 2024 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due May 7, 2024 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close May 7, 2024 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Energy's ARPA-E branch is seeking proposals for the topic "Plant HYperaccumulators TO MIne Nickel-Enriched Soils (PHYTOMINES)" as part of their Exploratory Topics SBIR/STTR program. This topic focuses on the development of plant hyperaccumulators that can extract nickel from soil. The technology aims to have applications in mining and environmental remediation by providing a more sustainable and cost-effective method for extracting nickel. The solicitation is open until May 7, 2024, and interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the provided links.

Files
No associated files provided.
Similar Opportunities
DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Portable Diamond NV-Based Quantum Magnetometer for Enhanced Detection of Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PBIEDs)
Active
Department of Defense
The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a portable Diamond Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) Center-based Quantum Magnetometer for enhanced detection of Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PBIEDs). Quantum magnetometers utilizing Diamond NV technology offer significant advancements in sensitivity and precision for detecting minor fluctuations in magnetic fields. The magnetometers provide benefits such as exceptional sensitivity, robustness, durability, and non-invasive detection. However, challenges include manufacturing complexity, cost, false positives in metal-rich environments, and limitations in detection range and depth. The solicitation invites proposals for designing a portable Diamond NV-based Quantum Magnetometer that addresses these challenges and demonstrates a thorough understanding of operational contexts. The project will be conducted in three phases: Phase I involves foundational groundwork and design schematics, Phase II focuses on developing a working prototype, and Phase III involves refining the final deployable equipment and procedures. The development of a better magnetometer has the potential to provide significant benefits to numerous programs within the DoD. The deadline for proposal submission is March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the [solicitation link](https://www.sbir.gov/node/2651331).
DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Deep Terrain Shaping
Active
Department of Defense
The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Deep Terrain Shaping" as part of its SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The Army branch is specifically interested in solutions or components of solutions that can delay, deter, and deny enemy forces freedom of movement 70-150km+ beyond the forward line of troops (FLOT). The current systems used by the Army for terrain shaping operations are aging and resource-intensive, and there are restrictions on their use outside of the Korean peninsula. The Army is looking for deep terrain shaping obstacles (DTSO) that can impede enemy movement and operations. This can include uncrewed systems capable of forming obstacles, positioning explosive loitering munitions, or activating when a threat is identified. The integration of remote sensing and lethal effectors at machine speed with human-in-the-loop is also of interest. The solutions should allow Soldiers to conduct terrain-shaping operations 70km+ beyond the FLOT and should be scalable for different desired effects on enemy maneuver. The solicitation is currently open, with a close date of March 31, 2025. The project will be conducted in two phases. Phase I involves designing a proof-of-concept solution or component(s) of a solution for terrain shaping in the deep fight. Phase II focuses on developing, building, and demonstrating a prototype of the concept advanced during Phase I. Awardees may also be eligible for a Phase IIb award to extend the period of performance with additional funding. Phase III aims to pursue commercialization objectives and may involve developing a manufacturing-ready product design and engaging in laboratory or operational testing. The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR) or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), and offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals. The full solicitation can be found at the following link: [SBIR Topic Link](https://www.sbir.gov/node/2484463).
DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - AI Driven Production of Coarse- and Nano-Nitramines
Active
Department of Defense
The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "AI Driven Production of Coarse- and Nano-Nitramines" as part of their SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The objective of this research is to use AI/ML driven methodologies to control the production processes for nano-nitramines in order to produce the most efficient and effective formulations. The U.S. Army is currently producing coarse nitramines in large quantities, but the production of nano-nitramines has been challenging due to time-consuming manufacturing processes and difficulties in processing. The use of AI/ML technology is expected to improve the production of both coarse and nano-nitramines by determining optimal methodologies, critical parameters, and post-crystallization processes. The anticipated benefits include improved production efficiency, reduced reject/rework, higher throughput, and lower costs. The solicitation is open for Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals with a maximum cost of $2,000,000 for a 24-month period of performance. The Phase II of the project will focus on demonstrating the feasibility of proposed techniques and implementing probes during the manufacturing process. The Phase III dual-use applications include academic and corporate research in various commercial use cases, such as healthcare, chemical engineering, agriculture, and EV battery chemistry development. The references for this topic include scientific articles on nano-nitramines and crystallization. The keywords for this topic are Nano-Nitramines, Crystallization, Nanomaterials, Coarse Nitramines, and AI/ML.
DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Water Tester at Point of Need
Active
Department of Defense
The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for a water tester at the point of need. The objective of this solicitation is to develop applied research for an innovative capability to improve water surveillance in field conditions. The goal is to create a rugged and compact field instrument that can provide microbiological and metal detection capabilities to reduce health risks to personnel. The water tester should be able to analyze for total coliforms, Escherichia coli, arsenic, lead, copper, and cyanide, providing rapid results within 4 hours. The equipment must be compact, durable, and able to fit in carry-on luggage, weighing no more than 25 pounds. The project will be conducted in two phases: Phase I involves a feasibility study, and Phase II focuses on developing and demonstrating a prototype system. The potential applications of this technology include military use, environmental programs, emergency response teams, and other federal directorates. The deadline for proposal submission is March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link: [here](https://www.sbir.gov/node/2484467).
DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Atmospheric Water Extraction Plus (AWE+)
Active
Department of Defense
The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Atmospheric Water Extraction Plus (AWE+)" as part of its SBIR program. The objective of this solicitation is to develop novel atmospheric water extraction technology with potential for energy use below 100Wh electric per liter of water generated across a wide range of environments. The technology should be integrated into a proof-of-concept prototype producing potable water with a clear path to full-size implementation. The DOD has a critical need to reduce water resupply requirements for mobile and self-sufficient operations. The development of AWE+ technology will have important tactical implications, reducing casualties and costs in forward operating environments. The goal is to provide potable water for a range of military needs by developing low-power, distributable systems that can provide water anywhere, anytime, and without the need for any external liquid water source. DARPA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, is specifically seeking teams with innovative means of releasing water from sorbents which is cyclically stable and has very low energy requirements. The technology should be able to produce water with not more than 100Wh electricity per liter of water produced, and not more than 100Wh thermal energy per liter of water produced. Proposals should outline a plan for reaching these energy metrics and provide an estimate for the range of environmental conditions at which the devices could operate. The project will be conducted in two phases. Phase I is a six-month effort focusing on proof-of-concept material and release mechanism development. Phase II is a 24-month effort with a base period of nine months, followed by two option periods. The performers will be expected to demonstrate functionality of their water capture and release mechanisms in a laboratory environment, producing at least 100mL of potable liquid water over a six-hour period with minimal loss in performance. The ultimate goal of this effort is to demonstrate AWE capable of meeting potable water needs for expeditionary scenarios with extremely high efficiency. Phase III will focus on transition within the DoD/military and further commercialization of the technology. Potential applications include satisfying military expeditionary water needs, reducing logistical footprint and vulnerability of supply lines, and developing next-generation dehumidification systems for residential and commercial HVAC. Keywords: Atmospheric water extraction, atmospheric water capture, atmospheric water harvesting, sorbent materials, advanced manufacturing. For more information and to submit proposals, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation notice on grants.gov or the DOD SBIR/STTR Opportunities website. The open date for proposals is October 3, 2023, and the close date is March 31, 2025.