TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: Additively Manufactured Propulsion Catalysts (MFS-TOPS-120)
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), specifically the Marshall Space Flight Center, is offering a Technology Transfer Licensing Opportunity for Additively Manufactured Propulsion Catalysts (MFS-TOPS-120). NASA's Technology Transfer Program seeks companies interested in obtaining license rights to commercialize, manufacture, and market this innovative technology. Inquiries and license applications are due by March 2, 2027.
Technology Overview
This opportunity focuses on a novel method developed by NASA and EOS to additively manufacture (AM) ultra-fine lattice structure propulsion catalysts. This technology addresses limitations of conventional catalyst manufacturing, which often involve coating thruster nozzles or inserting difficult-to-procure, variable, and fragile metal/graphite foams. The AM method aims to improve:
- Repeatability
- Thruster reactivity
- Tailorability (mechanical, chemical, fluid flow)
- Cost reduction
- Lead time reduction
The catalysts are used in mono-propulsion systems where propellant flows across them to generate thrust.
Licensing Details
- Opportunity Type: Technology Transfer Licensing Opportunity (Special Notice)
- Agency: NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
- License Basis: May be exclusive or nonexclusive, potentially including specific fields of use.
- Funding: NASA provides no funding in conjunction with these potential licenses.
- Follow-on Procurement: No follow-on procurement is expected to result from responses to this notice.
- Set-Aside: Not applicable for a technology licensing opportunity.
- Response Due: March 2, 2027, 5:00 PM ET.
- Published: March 3, 2026
How to Respond
Interested companies should submit a license application through NASA’s Automated Technology Licensing Application System (ATLAS) by visiting https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/MFS-TOPS-120. For questions, email Agency-Patent-Licensing@mail.nasa.gov, including the opportunity title and contact information.