The NASA SBIR and STTR programs fund the research, development, and demonstration of innovative technologies that fulfill NASA needs as described in the annual Solicitations and have significant potential for successful commercialization. If you are a small business concern (SBC) with 500 or fewer employees or a non-profit RI such as a university or a research laboratory with ties to an SBC, then NASA encourages you to learn more about the SBIR and STTR programs as a potential source of seed funding for the development of your innovations.
The SBIR and STTR programs have 3 phases:
The SBIR and STTR Phase I contracts last for 6 months with a maximum funding of $125,000, and Phase II contracts last for 24 months with a maximum funding of $750,000 - $1.5 million.
Opportunity for Continued Technology Development Post-Phase II:
The NASA SBIR/STTR Program currently has in place two initiatives for supporting its small business partners past the basic Phase I and Phase II elements of the program that emphasize opportunities for commercialization. Specifically, the NASA SBIR/STTR Program has the Phase II Enhancement (Phase II-E) and Phase II eXpanded (Phase II-X) contract options.
Please review the links below to obtain more information on the SBIR/STTR programs.
Provides an overview of the SBIR and STTR programs as implemented by NASA
Provides access to the annual SBIR/STTR Solicitations containing detailed information on the program eligibility requirements, proposal instructions and research topics and subtopics
Schedule and links for the SBIR/STTR solicitations and selection announcements
Federal and non-Federal sources of assistance for small business
Search our complete archive of awarded project abstracts to learn about what NASA has funded
Still have questions? Visit the program FAQs
","parentProgram":{"ableToSelect":false,"isActive":true,"description":"Catalyst is a portfolio of early stage programs that specialize in different innovation constituencies and mechanisms to push the state of the art in aerospace technology development","programId":92327,"responsibleMd":{"canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":""},"title":"Catalyst","acronymOrTitle":"Catalyst"},"parentProgramId":92327,"programId":73,"responsibleMd":{"organizationId":4875,"organizationName":"Space Technology Mission Directorate","acronym":"STMD","organizationType":"NASA_Mission_Directorate","canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":"NASA Mission Directorate"},"responsibleMdOffice":4875,"stockImageFileId":36648,"title":"Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer","acronymOrTitle":"SBIR/STTR"},"description":"Ongoing rocket test operations at NASA Stennis Space Center (SSC) result in substantial quantities of hydrogen gas that is flared from the facility in addition to valuable helium gas that is vented to the atmosphere. One method that can dramatically reduce the cost of test operations is to recover these gases using an electrochemical process. A Hydrogen Recovery System (HRS), which has recently been the subject of a highly successful Phase II SBIR conducted by Sustainable Innovations, LLC, selectively removes hydrogen from the mixed stream, leaving behind the high-value helium. In 2014 a prototype unit was successfully delivered by Sustainable Innovations to SSC to demonstrate the ability to capture, separate and compress helium from a mixture derived from test operations. The innovative step in this Phase I proposal is to increase the gas capacity capability of the electrochemical separation cell while maintaining optimal operating efficiency and durability. This will be achieved by: Implementing high electrical conductivity, high durability coatings on cell components that support operation in the hydrogen environment; Evaluating and demonstrating robust, high strength, high conductivity proton exchange membrane materials that support the separation process; and Integrating all elements within a one-piece flow field structure to minimize interfaces and facilitate coatings. It is expected that these innovative steps will allow for at least a doubling of throughput capacity per unit cell area.","benefits":"Hydrogen/Helium Separation – NASA has significant needs to separate and recover hydrogen and helium from its large rocket engine test stands. Hydrogen Separation for Resource Recovery – Sustainable Innovations is working with Marshall Space Flight Center on a system that can separate and compress hydrogen from a mixed stream containing CO, methane, acetylene, ethane, and ethylene. An SBIR Phase I research program has shown that electrochemical hydrogen separation and compression is an enabling technology for the Carbon Dioxide Reduction System that facilitates further closure of the oxygen loop in an Advanced Life Support System. Pressurization for Mechanical Actuation – The NASA In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) group is very interested in the utilization of hydrogen as a working fluid for mechanical actuation. In this application, hydrogen would be compressed electrochemically using the core architecture of the HRS. Reformate Separation –There is a need by NASA to convert carbon dioxide to fuels as well as convert fuels to hydrogen. As part of this collection of cycles, there is a need to separate H2 from environments containing CO, CO2, and excess fuels. Fuel Cell Energy Storage – Hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell systems are being carefully examined by NASA as a means of providing efficient energy storage for many different NASA missions. Residual helium often exists in the hydrogen tanks of these energy storage systems.The NASA SBIR and STTR programs fund the research, development, and demonstration of innovative technologies that fulfill NASA needs as described in the annual Solicitations and have significant potential for successful commercialization. If you are a small business concern (SBC) with 500 or fewer employees or a non-profit RI such as a university or a research laboratory with ties to an SBC, then NASA encourages you to learn more about the SBIR and STTR programs as a potential source of seed funding for the development of your innovations.
The SBIR and STTR programs have 3 phases:
The SBIR and STTR Phase I contracts last for 6 months with a maximum funding of $125,000, and Phase II contracts last for 24 months with a maximum funding of $750,000 - $1.5 million.
Opportunity for Continued Technology Development Post-Phase II:
The NASA SBIR/STTR Program currently has in place two initiatives for supporting its small business partners past the basic Phase I and Phase II elements of the program that emphasize opportunities for commercialization. Specifically, the NASA SBIR/STTR Program has the Phase II Enhancement (Phase II-E) and Phase II eXpanded (Phase II-X) contract options.
Please review the links below to obtain more information on the SBIR/STTR programs.
Provides an overview of the SBIR and STTR programs as implemented by NASA
Provides access to the annual SBIR/STTR Solicitations containing detailed information on the program eligibility requirements, proposal instructions and research topics and subtopics
Schedule and links for the SBIR/STTR solicitations and selection announcements
Federal and non-Federal sources of assistance for small business
Search our complete archive of awarded project abstracts to learn about what NASA has funded
Still have questions? Visit the program FAQs
","parentProgram":{"ableToSelect":false,"isActive":true,"description":"Catalyst is a portfolio of early stage programs that specialize in different innovation constituencies and mechanisms to push the state of the art in aerospace technology development","programId":92327,"responsibleMd":{"canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":""},"title":"Catalyst","acronymOrTitle":"Catalyst"},"parentProgramId":92327,"programId":73,"responsibleMd":{"organizationId":4875,"organizationName":"Space Technology Mission Directorate","acronym":"STMD","organizationType":"NASA_Mission_Directorate","canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":"NASA Mission Directorate"},"responsibleMdOffice":4875,"stockImageFileId":36648,"title":"Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer","acronymOrTitle":"SBIR/STTR"},"description":"Ongoing rocket test operations at NASA Stennis Space Center (SSC) result in substantial quantities of hydrogen gas that is flared from the facility in addition to valuable helium gas that is vented to the atmosphere. One method that can dramatically reduce the cost of test operations is to recover these gases using an electrochemical process. A Hydrogen Recovery System (HRS), which has recently been the subject of a highly successful Phase II SBIR conducted by Sustainable Innovations, LLC, selectively removes hydrogen from the mixed stream, leaving behind the high-value helium. In 2014 a prototype unit was successfully delivered by Sustainable Innovations to SSC to demonstrate the ability to capture, separate and compress helium from a mixture derived from test operations. The innovative step in this Phase I proposal is to increase the gas capacity capability of the electrochemical separation cell while maintaining optimal operating efficiency and durability. This will be achieved by: Implementing high electrical conductivity, high durability coatings on cell components that support operation in the hydrogen environment; Evaluating and demonstrating robust, high strength, high conductivity proton exchange membrane materials that support the separation process; and Integrating all elements within a one-piece flow field structure to minimize interfaces and facilitate coatings. It is expected that these innovative steps will allow for at least a doubling of throughput capacity per unit cell area.","benefits":"Hydrogen/Helium Separation – NASA has significant needs to separate and recover hydrogen and helium from its large rocket engine test stands. Hydrogen Separation for Resource Recovery – Sustainable Innovations is working with Marshall Space Flight Center on a system that can separate and compress hydrogen from a mixed stream containing CO, methane, acetylene, ethane, and ethylene. An SBIR Phase I research program has shown that electrochemical hydrogen separation and compression is an enabling technology for the Carbon Dioxide Reduction System that facilitates further closure of the oxygen loop in an Advanced Life Support System. Pressurization for Mechanical Actuation – The NASA In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) group is very interested in the utilization of hydrogen as a working fluid for mechanical actuation. In this application, hydrogen would be compressed electrochemically using the core architecture of the HRS. Reformate Separation –There is a need by NASA to convert carbon dioxide to fuels as well as convert fuels to hydrogen. As part of this collection of cycles, there is a need to separate H2 from environments containing CO, CO2, and excess fuels. Fuel Cell Energy Storage – Hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell systems are being carefully examined by NASA as a means of providing efficient energy storage for many different NASA missions. Residual helium often exists in the hydrogen tanks of these energy storage systems.The NASA SBIR and STTR programs fund the research, development, and demonstration of innovative technologies that fulfill NASA needs as described in the annual Solicitations and have significant potential for successful commercialization. If you are a small business concern (SBC) with 500 or fewer employees or a non-profit RI such as a university or a research laboratory with ties to an SBC, then NASA encourages you to learn more about the SBIR and STTR programs as a potential source of seed funding for the development of your innovations.
The SBIR and STTR programs have 3 phases:
The SBIR and STTR Phase I contracts last for 6 months with a maximum funding of $125,000, and Phase II contracts last for 24 months with a maximum funding of $750,000 - $1.5 million.
Opportunity for Continued Technology Development Post-Phase II:
The NASA SBIR/STTR Program currently has in place two initiatives for supporting its small business partners past the basic Phase I and Phase II elements of the program that emphasize opportunities for commercialization. Specifically, the NASA SBIR/STTR Program has the Phase II Enhancement (Phase II-E) and Phase II eXpanded (Phase II-X) contract options.
Please review the links below to obtain more information on the SBIR/STTR programs.
Provides an overview of the SBIR and STTR programs as implemented by NASA
Provides access to the annual SBIR/STTR Solicitations containing detailed information on the program eligibility requirements, proposal instructions and research topics and subtopics
Schedule and links for the SBIR/STTR solicitations and selection announcements
Federal and non-Federal sources of assistance for small business
Search our complete archive of awarded project abstracts to learn about what NASA has funded
Still have questions? Visit the program FAQs
","parentProgram":{"ableToSelect":false,"isActive":true,"description":"Catalyst is a portfolio of early stage programs that specialize in different innovation constituencies and mechanisms to push the state of the art in aerospace technology development","programId":92327,"responsibleMd":{"canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":""},"title":"Catalyst","acronymOrTitle":"Catalyst"},"parentProgramId":92327,"programId":73,"responsibleMd":{"organizationId":4875,"organizationName":"Space Technology Mission Directorate","acronym":"STMD","organizationType":"NASA_Mission_Directorate","canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":"NASA Mission Directorate"},"responsibleMdOffice":4875,"stockImageFileId":36648,"title":"Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer","acronymOrTitle":"SBIR/STTR"},"description":"Ongoing rocket test operations at NASA Stennis Space Center (SSC) result in substantial quantities of hydrogen gas that is flared from the facility in addition to valuable helium gas that is vented to the atmosphere. One method that can dramatically reduce the cost of test operations is to recover these gases using an electrochemical process. A Hydrogen Recovery System (HRS), which has recently been the subject of a highly successful Phase II SBIR conducted by Sustainable Innovations, LLC, selectively removes hydrogen from the mixed stream, leaving behind the high-value helium. In 2014 a prototype unit was successfully delivered by Sustainable Innovations to SSC to demonstrate the ability to capture, separate and compress helium from a mixture derived from test operations. The innovative step in this Phase I proposal is to increase the gas capacity capability of the electrochemical separation cell while maintaining optimal operating efficiency and durability. This will be achieved by: Implementing high electrical conductivity, high durability coatings on cell components that support operation in the hydrogen environment; Evaluating and demonstrating robust, high strength, high conductivity proton exchange membrane materials that support the separation process; and Integrating all elements within a one-piece flow field structure to minimize interfaces and facilitate coatings. It is expected that these innovative steps will allow for at least a doubling of throughput capacity per unit cell area.","benefits":"Hydrogen/Helium Separation – NASA has significant needs to separate and recover hydrogen and helium from its large rocket engine test stands. Hydrogen Separation for Resource Recovery – Sustainable Innovations is working with Marshall Space Flight Center on a system that can separate and compress hydrogen from a mixed stream containing CO, methane, acetylene, ethane, and ethylene. An SBIR Phase I research program has shown that electrochemical hydrogen separation and compression is an enabling technology for the Carbon Dioxide Reduction System that facilitates further closure of the oxygen loop in an Advanced Life Support System. Pressurization for Mechanical Actuation – The NASA In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) group is very interested in the utilization of hydrogen as a working fluid for mechanical actuation. In this application, hydrogen would be compressed electrochemically using the core architecture of the HRS. Reformate Separation –There is a need by NASA to convert carbon dioxide to fuels as well as convert fuels to hydrogen. As part of this collection of cycles, there is a need to separate H2 from environments containing CO, CO2, and excess fuels. Fuel Cell Energy Storage – Hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell systems are being carefully examined by NASA as a means of providing efficient energy storage for many different NASA missions. Residual helium often exists in the hydrogen tanks of these energy storage systems.The NASA SBIR and STTR programs fund the research, development, and demonstration of innovative technologies that fulfill NASA needs as described in the annual Solicitations and have significant potential for successful commercialization. If you are a small business concern (SBC) with 500 or fewer employees or a non-profit RI such as a university or a research laboratory with ties to an SBC, then NASA encourages you to learn more about the SBIR and STTR programs as a potential source of seed funding for the development of your innovations.
The SBIR and STTR programs have 3 phases:
The SBIR and STTR Phase I contracts last for 6 months with a maximum funding of $125,000, and Phase II contracts last for 24 months with a maximum funding of $750,000 - $1.5 million.
Opportunity for Continued Technology Development Post-Phase II:
The NASA SBIR/STTR Program currently has in place two initiatives for supporting its small business partners past the basic Phase I and Phase II elements of the program that emphasize opportunities for commercialization. Specifically, the NASA SBIR/STTR Program has the Phase II Enhancement (Phase II-E) and Phase II eXpanded (Phase II-X) contract options.
Please review the links below to obtain more information on the SBIR/STTR programs.
Provides an overview of the SBIR and STTR programs as implemented by NASA
Provides access to the annual SBIR/STTR Solicitations containing detailed information on the program eligibility requirements, proposal instructions and research topics and subtopics
Schedule and links for the SBIR/STTR solicitations and selection announcements
Federal and non-Federal sources of assistance for small business
Search our complete archive of awarded project abstracts to learn about what NASA has funded
Still have questions? Visit the program FAQs
","parentProgram":{"ableToSelect":false,"isActive":true,"description":"Catalyst is a portfolio of early stage programs that specialize in different innovation constituencies and mechanisms to push the state of the art in aerospace technology development","programId":92327,"responsibleMd":{"canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":""},"title":"Catalyst","acronymOrTitle":"Catalyst"},"parentProgramId":92327,"programId":73,"responsibleMd":{"organizationId":4875,"organizationName":"Space Technology Mission Directorate","acronym":"STMD","organizationType":"NASA_Mission_Directorate","canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":"NASA Mission Directorate"},"responsibleMdOffice":4875,"stockImageFileId":36648,"title":"Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer","acronymOrTitle":"SBIR/STTR"},"description":"Ongoing rocket test operations at NASA Stennis Space Center (SSC) result in substantial quantities of hydrogen gas that is flared from the facility in addition to valuable helium gas that is vented to the atmosphere. One method that can dramatically reduce the cost of test operations is to recover these gases using an electrochemical process. A Hydrogen Recovery System (HRS), which has recently been the subject of a highly successful Phase II SBIR conducted by Sustainable Innovations, LLC, selectively removes hydrogen from the mixed stream, leaving behind the high-value helium. In 2014 a prototype unit was successfully delivered by Sustainable Innovations to SSC to demonstrate the ability to capture, separate and compress helium from a mixture derived from test operations. The innovative step in this Phase I proposal is to increase the gas capacity capability of the electrochemical separation cell while maintaining optimal operating efficiency and durability. This will be achieved by: Implementing high electrical conductivity, high durability coatings on cell components that support operation in the hydrogen environment; Evaluating and demonstrating robust, high strength, high conductivity proton exchange membrane materials that support the separation process; and Integrating all elements within a one-piece flow field structure to minimize interfaces and facilitate coatings. It is expected that these innovative steps will allow for at least a doubling of throughput capacity per unit cell area.","benefits":"Hydrogen/Helium Separation – NASA has significant needs to separate and recover hydrogen and helium from its large rocket engine test stands. Hydrogen Separation for Resource Recovery – Sustainable Innovations is working with Marshall Space Flight Center on a system that can separate and compress hydrogen from a mixed stream containing CO, methane, acetylene, ethane, and ethylene. An SBIR Phase I research program has shown that electrochemical hydrogen separation and compression is an enabling technology for the Carbon Dioxide Reduction System that facilitates further closure of the oxygen loop in an Advanced Life Support System. Pressurization for Mechanical Actuation – The NASA In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) group is very interested in the utilization of hydrogen as a working fluid for mechanical actuation. In this application, hydrogen would be compressed electrochemically using the core architecture of the HRS. Reformate Separation –There is a need by NASA to convert carbon dioxide to fuels as well as convert fuels to hydrogen. As part of this collection of cycles, there is a need to separate H2 from environments containing CO, CO2, and excess fuels. Fuel Cell Energy Storage – Hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell systems are being carefully examined by NASA as a means of providing efficient energy storage for many different NASA missions. Residual helium often exists in the hydrogen tanks of these energy storage systems.The NASA SBIR and STTR programs fund the research, development, and demonstration of innovative technologies that fulfill NASA needs as described in the annual Solicitations and have significant potential for successful commercialization. If you are a small business concern (SBC) with 500 or fewer employees or a non-profit RI such as a university or a research laboratory with ties to an SBC, then NASA encourages you to learn more about the SBIR and STTR programs as a potential source of seed funding for the development of your innovations.
The SBIR and STTR programs have 3 phases:
The SBIR and STTR Phase I contracts last for 6 months with a maximum funding of $125,000, and Phase II contracts last for 24 months with a maximum funding of $750,000 - $1.5 million.
Opportunity for Continued Technology Development Post-Phase II:
The NASA SBIR/STTR Program currently has in place two initiatives for supporting its small business partners past the basic Phase I and Phase II elements of the program that emphasize opportunities for commercialization. Specifically, the NASA SBIR/STTR Program has the Phase II Enhancement (Phase II-E) and Phase II eXpanded (Phase II-X) contract options.
Please review the links below to obtain more information on the SBIR/STTR programs.
Provides an overview of the SBIR and STTR programs as implemented by NASA
Provides access to the annual SBIR/STTR Solicitations containing detailed information on the program eligibility requirements, proposal instructions and research topics and subtopics
Schedule and links for the SBIR/STTR solicitations and selection announcements
Federal and non-Federal sources of assistance for small business
Search our complete archive of awarded project abstracts to learn about what NASA has funded
Still have questions? Visit the program FAQs
","parentProgram":{"ableToSelect":false,"isActive":true,"description":"Catalyst is a portfolio of early stage programs that specialize in different innovation constituencies and mechanisms to push the state of the art in aerospace technology development","programId":92327,"responsibleMd":{"canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":""},"title":"Catalyst","acronymOrTitle":"Catalyst"},"parentProgramId":92327,"programId":73,"responsibleMd":{"organizationId":4875,"organizationName":"Space Technology Mission Directorate","acronym":"STMD","organizationType":"NASA_Mission_Directorate","canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":"NASA Mission Directorate"},"responsibleMdOffice":4875,"stockImageFileId":36648,"title":"Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer","acronymOrTitle":"SBIR/STTR"},"description":"As the price of helium has increased substantially in recent years, the interest in finding an efficient and economical method of helium recovery has never been more important. One method that can reduce the cost of rocket test operations is to recover hydrogen and helium gases using an electrochemical process. Sustainable Innovations is developing a commercial electrochemical platform that separates and compresses hydrogen using Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) technology for industrial applications such as metals and electronics processing. A Helium Recovery System (HRS), based on the same platform and constructed by Sustainable Innovations, selectively removes hydrogen from the mixed H2/He stream, leaving behind the high-value helium. The system then removes residual water vapor from this helium and compresses it to commercial storage pressure. This system featured a subsystem that captured the vented hydrogen and helium gas mixture, an electrochemical separation subsystem that purified both hydrogen and helium streams, and a compression subsystem that permitted high pressure gas delivery. A critical next step in the advancement of the HRS design is proving the scalability of this technology. The innovative step in this proposal is to increase the gas capacity capability of the electrochemical separation system while maintaining optimal operating efficiency and durability. It is expected that at least a doubling of throughput capacity per unit cell area ? largely driven by the amount of current that can be practically applied to an individual cell area without hindering longevity of critical components, can be achieved. This performance will be validated by cell durability tests. The innovation will be scaled in Phase II and integrated into a low-cost, scalable, modular package that will be delivered to SSC.
","benefits":"Hydrogen/Helium Separation - (SSC, KSC, MSFC) SSC has significant needs to separate and recover hydrogen and helium from its large rocket engine test stands. Hydrogen Separation for Resource Recovery ? SI is working with MSFC on a system that can separate and compress hydrogen from CO along with other reactive gases including methane, acetylene, ethane, and ethylene. This research project has shown that electrochemical hydrogen separation and compression is an enabling technology for the Carbon Dioxide Reduction System, facilitating closure of the oxygen loop in an Advanced Life Support System. Pressurization for Mechanical Actuation ? (JSC) The In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU), group at JSC is interested in the use of hydrogen as a working fluid for mechanical actuation. In this application, hydrogen would be compressed electrochemically, using the core architecture of the HRS. Reformate Separation ? (JSC, MSFC) There is a need to separate hydrogen from CO, CO2, and excess fuels in processes such as reformation of methane and other fuels. The HRS being developed here provides the necessary technology base to support efficient separation of these constituents.Fuel Cell Energy Storage ? (GRC, JSC, JPL) Hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell systems are being carefully examined by NASA as a means of providing efficient energy storage for many different NASA missions. Long-term missions are hampered by helium in hydrogen tanks. An HRS can alleviate this problem.
-Process Hydrogen Markets: Hydrogen used as process atmosphere in industries such as metal heat treatment, electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, float glass production, and electricity production (for electric generator cooling.) -Hydrogen Fueling Markets: Hydrogen used as fuel in a variety of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) (forklifts, scooters, passenger cars, ships, etc.), stationary power and research markets. -Hydrogen Tri-Generation: Separation of hydrogen from stationary fuel cell reformate, and compression for fueling (such as FCVs) applications. -Hydrogen Production: Captive production, merchant production and delivery, and distributed production of hydrogen from natural gas or methane via reformer, or via electrolysis. -Power-to-Gas Energy Storage: Energy storage in the form of hydrogen produced from excess renewable power and stored in the natural gas infrastructure. -Helium Production: Separation of hydrogen from mixed gas stream containing helium, hydrogen and other byproducts in the production of helium.
The NASA SBIR and STTR programs fund the research, development, and demonstration of innovative technologies that fulfill NASA needs as described in the annual Solicitations and have significant potential for successful commercialization. If you are a small business concern (SBC) with 500 or fewer employees or a non-profit RI such as a university or a research laboratory with ties to an SBC, then NASA encourages you to learn more about the SBIR and STTR programs as a potential source of seed funding for the development of your innovations.
The SBIR and STTR programs have 3 phases:
The SBIR and STTR Phase I contracts last for 6 months with a maximum funding of $125,000, and Phase II contracts last for 24 months with a maximum funding of $750,000 - $1.5 million.
Opportunity for Continued Technology Development Post-Phase II:
The NASA SBIR/STTR Program currently has in place two initiatives for supporting its small business partners past the basic Phase I and Phase II elements of the program that emphasize opportunities for commercialization. Specifically, the NASA SBIR/STTR Program has the Phase II Enhancement (Phase II-E) and Phase II eXpanded (Phase II-X) contract options.
Please review the links below to obtain more information on the SBIR/STTR programs.
Provides an overview of the SBIR and STTR programs as implemented by NASA
Provides access to the annual SBIR/STTR Solicitations containing detailed information on the program eligibility requirements, proposal instructions and research topics and subtopics
Schedule and links for the SBIR/STTR solicitations and selection announcements
Federal and non-Federal sources of assistance for small business
Search our complete archive of awarded project abstracts to learn about what NASA has funded
Still have questions? Visit the program FAQs
","parentProgram":{"ableToSelect":false,"isActive":true,"description":"Catalyst is a portfolio of early stage programs that specialize in different innovation constituencies and mechanisms to push the state of the art in aerospace technology development","programId":92327,"responsibleMd":{"canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":""},"title":"Catalyst","acronymOrTitle":"Catalyst"},"parentProgramId":92327,"programId":73,"responsibleMd":{"organizationId":4875,"organizationName":"Space Technology Mission Directorate","acronym":"STMD","organizationType":"NASA_Mission_Directorate","canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":"NASA Mission Directorate"},"responsibleMdOffice":4875,"stockImageFileId":36648,"title":"Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer","acronymOrTitle":"SBIR/STTR"},"description":"Ongoing rocket test operations at NASA Stennis Space Center (SSC) result in substantial quantities of hydrogen gas that is flared from the facility in addition to valuable helium gas that is vented to the atmosphere. One method that can dramatically reduce the cost of test operations is to recover these gases using an electrochemical process. A Hydrogen Recovery System (HRS), which has recently been the subject of a highly successful Phase II SBIR conducted by Sustainable Innovations, LLC, selectively removes hydrogen from the mixed stream, leaving behind the high-value helium. In 2014 a prototype unit was successfully delivered by Sustainable Innovations to SSC to demonstrate the ability to capture, separate and compress helium from a mixture derived from test operations. The innovative step in this Phase I proposal is to increase the gas capacity capability of the electrochemical separation cell while maintaining optimal operating efficiency and durability. This will be achieved by: Implementing high electrical conductivity, high durability coatings on cell components that support operation in the hydrogen environment; Evaluating and demonstrating robust, high strength, high conductivity proton exchange membrane materials that support the separation process; and Integrating all elements within a one-piece flow field structure to minimize interfaces and facilitate coatings. It is expected that these innovative steps will allow for at least a doubling of throughput capacity per unit cell area.","benefits":"Hydrogen/Helium Separation – NASA has significant needs to separate and recover hydrogen and helium from its large rocket engine test stands. Hydrogen Separation for Resource Recovery – Sustainable Innovations is working with Marshall Space Flight Center on a system that can separate and compress hydrogen from a mixed stream containing CO, methane, acetylene, ethane, and ethylene. An SBIR Phase I research program has shown that electrochemical hydrogen separation and compression is an enabling technology for the Carbon Dioxide Reduction System that facilitates further closure of the oxygen loop in an Advanced Life Support System. Pressurization for Mechanical Actuation – The NASA In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) group is very interested in the utilization of hydrogen as a working fluid for mechanical actuation. In this application, hydrogen would be compressed electrochemically using the core architecture of the HRS. Reformate Separation –There is a need by NASA to convert carbon dioxide to fuels as well as convert fuels to hydrogen. As part of this collection of cycles, there is a need to separate H2 from environments containing CO, CO2, and excess fuels. Fuel Cell Energy Storage – Hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell systems are being carefully examined by NASA as a means of providing efficient energy storage for many different NASA missions. Residual helium often exists in the hydrogen tanks of these energy storage systems.The NASA SBIR and STTR programs fund the research, development, and demonstration of innovative technologies that fulfill NASA needs as described in the annual Solicitations and have significant potential for successful commercialization. If you are a small business concern (SBC) with 500 or fewer employees or a non-profit RI such as a university or a research laboratory with ties to an SBC, then NASA encourages you to learn more about the SBIR and STTR programs as a potential source of seed funding for the development of your innovations.
The SBIR and STTR programs have 3 phases:
The SBIR and STTR Phase I contracts last for 6 months with a maximum funding of $125,000, and Phase II contracts last for 24 months with a maximum funding of $750,000 - $1.5 million.
Opportunity for Continued Technology Development Post-Phase II:
The NASA SBIR/STTR Program currently has in place two initiatives for supporting its small business partners past the basic Phase I and Phase II elements of the program that emphasize opportunities for commercialization. Specifically, the NASA SBIR/STTR Program has the Phase II Enhancement (Phase II-E) and Phase II eXpanded (Phase II-X) contract options.
Please review the links below to obtain more information on the SBIR/STTR programs.
Provides an overview of the SBIR and STTR programs as implemented by NASA
Provides access to the annual SBIR/STTR Solicitations containing detailed information on the program eligibility requirements, proposal instructions and research topics and subtopics
Schedule and links for the SBIR/STTR solicitations and selection announcements
Federal and non-Federal sources of assistance for small business
Search our complete archive of awarded project abstracts to learn about what NASA has funded
Still have questions? Visit the program FAQs
","parentProgram":{"ableToSelect":false,"isActive":true,"description":"Catalyst is a portfolio of early stage programs that specialize in different innovation constituencies and mechanisms to push the state of the art in aerospace technology development","programId":92327,"responsibleMd":{"canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":""},"title":"Catalyst","acronymOrTitle":"Catalyst"},"parentProgramId":92327,"programId":73,"responsibleMd":{"organizationId":4875,"organizationName":"Space Technology Mission Directorate","acronym":"STMD","organizationType":"NASA_Mission_Directorate","canUserEdit":false,"locationEdit":false,"organizationRolePretty":"","organizationTypePretty":"NASA Mission Directorate"},"responsibleMdOffice":4875,"stockImageFileId":36648,"title":"Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer","acronymOrTitle":"SBIR/STTR"},"description":"As the price of helium has increased substantially in recent years, the interest in finding an efficient and economical method of helium recovery has never been more important. One method that can reduce the cost of rocket test operations is to recover hydrogen and helium gases using an electrochemical process. Sustainable Innovations is developing a commercial electrochemical platform that separates and compresses hydrogen using Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) technology for industrial applications such as metals and electronics processing. A Helium Recovery System (HRS), based on the same platform and constructed by Sustainable Innovations, selectively removes hydrogen from the mixed H2/He stream, leaving behind the high-value helium. The system then removes residual water vapor from this helium and compresses it to commercial storage pressure. This system featured a subsystem that captured the vented hydrogen and helium gas mixture, an electrochemical separation subsystem that purified both hydrogen and helium streams, and a compression subsystem that permitted high pressure gas delivery. A critical next step in the advancement of the HRS design is proving the scalability of this technology. The innovative step in this proposal is to increase the gas capacity capability of the electrochemical separation system while maintaining optimal operating efficiency and durability. It is expected that at least a doubling of throughput capacity per unit cell area ? largely driven by the amount of current that can be practically applied to an individual cell area without hindering longevity of critical components, can be achieved. This performance will be validated by cell durability tests. The innovation will be scaled in Phase II and integrated into a low-cost, scalable, modular package that will be delivered to SSC.
","benefits":"Hydrogen/Helium Separation - (SSC, KSC, MSFC) SSC has significant needs to separate and recover hydrogen and helium from its large rocket engine test stands. Hydrogen Separation for Resource Recovery ? SI is working with MSFC on a system that can separate and compress hydrogen from CO along with other reactive gases including methane, acetylene, ethane, and ethylene. This research project has shown that electrochemical hydrogen separation and compression is an enabling technology for the Carbon Dioxide Reduction System, facilitating closure of the oxygen loop in an Advanced Life Support System. Pressurization for Mechanical Actuation ? (JSC) The In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU), group at JSC is interested in the use of hydrogen as a working fluid for mechanical actuation. In this application, hydrogen would be compressed electrochemically, using the core architecture of the HRS. Reformate Separation ? (JSC, MSFC) There is a need to separate hydrogen from CO, CO2, and excess fuels in processes such as reformation of methane and other fuels. The HRS being developed here provides the necessary technology base to support efficient separation of these constituents.Fuel Cell Energy Storage ? (GRC, JSC, JPL) Hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell systems are being carefully examined by NASA as a means of providing efficient energy storage for many different NASA missions. Long-term missions are hampered by helium in hydrogen tanks. An HRS can alleviate this problem.
-Process Hydrogen Markets: Hydrogen used as process atmosphere in industries such as metal heat treatment, electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, float glass production, and electricity production (for electric generator cooling.) -Hydrogen Fueling Markets: Hydrogen used as fuel in a variety of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) (forklifts, scooters, passenger cars, ships, etc.), stationary power and research markets. -Hydrogen Tri-Generation: Separation of hydrogen from stationary fuel cell reformate, and compression for fueling (such as FCVs) applications. -Hydrogen Production: Captive production, merchant production and delivery, and distributed production of hydrogen from natural gas or methane via reformer, or via electrolysis. -Power-to-Gas Energy Storage: Energy storage in the form of hydrogen produced from excess renewable power and stored in the natural gas infrastructure. -Helium Production: Separation of hydrogen from mixed gas stream containing helium, hydrogen and other byproducts in the production of helium.