Apr 5 2010
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) invites small business firms to submit research proposals under this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Solicitation. The SBIR program is a phased process across the Federal Government of soliciting proposals and awarding funding agreements for research (R) or research and development (R+D) to meet stated agency needs or missions.
EPA is interested in advanced technologies that address priority environmental issues. The proposed research must directly pertain to EPA's environmental mission and must be responsive to EPA program interests included in the topic descriptions in this solicitation.The following topics are included in this solicitation:
- Green Building
- Innovation in Manufacturing
- Nanotechnology
- Greenhouse Gases
- Drinking Water Monitoring and Treatment
- Wastewater and Sustainable Infrastructure
- Air Pollution Monitoring and Control
- Biofuels
- Waste Monitoring and Management
- Homeland Security
Nanotechnology
Research is needed to apply nanotechnology to the areas of pollution prevention, monitoring and control. Research is also needed to help detect, quantify and control nanoparticles themselves. Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter at dimensions of roughly 1 to 100 nanometers, where unique phenomena enable novel applications. Encompassing nanoscale science, engineering and technology, nanotechnology involves imaging, measuring, modeling, and manipulating matter at the nanoscale. Specific areas of interest include, but are not limited to:
* Development of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)- and nanotechnology-based sensors for rapid and precise process control and environmental monitoring. Areas of particular interest include remote, in-situ, real-time and continuous measurement of species at trace (ppt) concentrations. * * Sensors that utilize lab-on-a-chip technology are also of interest.
* New nanoporous filters for removal of gaseous pollutants and particulates from contaminated air streams.
* Nanoparticulate catalysts for utilization in VOC treatment devices and related applications.
* High surface area nanomaterials for new coatings and environmental applications.
* New, lightweight portable instruments to detect and quantify nanoparticles.
* Technologies that minimize the release of nanomaterials into the environment.
NCER's mission is to support high-quality research by the nation's leading scientists and engineers that will improve EPA’s scientific basis for decisions on national environmental issues. NCER supports leading edge extramural research in exposure, effects, risk assessment, and risk management through competitions for STAR grants, fellowships, and research contracts under the Small Business Innovative Research Program.