# SAM #80NSSC27945389Q NASA sole-source Phase 1 development of FAST-sintered zirconium carbide test discs **Buyer:** NASA Shared Services Center **Posted:** October 06, 2026 **Respond By:** October 08, 2026 **Identifier:** 80NSSC27945389Q **NAICS:** 611310, 541715 NASA Langley is seeking Phase 1 research and development of zirconium carbide ceramic test samples for nuclear and space applications. - **Agency and procurement:** NASA is procuring through NASA/NSSC for work at NASA Langley Research Center. NASA intends a sole-source award to The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State); the notice requests capability statements, not quotes. - **Scope:** The vendor will procure zirconium carbide powder and develop Field-Assisted Sintering Technology (FAST) parameters to densify zirconium carbide for nuclear-relevant testing. - **Deliverable:** Produce and deliver 10 zirconium carbide discs for NASA hydrogen-corrosion and related testing. Geometry will be developed for the work; an example target is 40 mm outside diameter by 5 mm thick. - **Rationale and future work:** NASA cites Penn State’s prior NASA work, specialized equipment, and demonstrated materials expertise as the basis for the sole-source approach. Potential follow-on phases may depend on Phase 1 test results. - **Response deadline:** Written capability statements are due by 7:00 a.m. Central Standard Time on October 8, 2026. ### Description

** THIS IS A SOLE SOURCE REQUIREMENT ** for Development of Zirconium Carbide and superior high temperature ceramics for nuclear fission applications.

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