TECHNOLOGY/BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Biodegradable soil temperature sensor
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 U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), through Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), has issued a Special Notice for a Technology/Business Opportunity to collaborate on and commercialize a biodegradable soil temperature sensor. This is NOT a procurement; LLNL is seeking industry partners to bring this invention to market. Statements of interest are due by March 3, 2026.
Opportunity Details
LLNL has developed and field-tested a novel biodegradable soil temperature sensor designed for industrial-scale agriculture. This device, which is 99% biodegradable, utilizes a bimaterial helix within a polylactic acid (PLA) casing to measure temperature, eliminating the need for manual retrieval and mitigating e-waste and soil contamination associated with conventional sensors. The technology is currently at TRL 5-9, and patent protection has been filed.
Key Advantages:
- Field-tested and 99% biodegradable (sensing mechanism and housing).
- Removes the need for manual retrieval, reducing costs and resources.
- High precision while eliminating electronic waste.
- Small environmental footprint, operating without batteries or wiring.
- Easy-to-view readout dial for data collection (e.g., via aerial drone imaging).
Potential Applications: Sustainable agriculture and composting, particularly on an industrial scale.
Collaboration & Response
LLNL is actively seeking industry partners with a demonstrated ability to commercialize such inventions. Interested companies should provide an electronic or written statement of interest that includes:
- Company Name and address.
- Name, address, and telephone number of a point of contact.
- A description of corporate expertise and/or facilities relevant to commercializing this technology.
Timeline
- Published Date: February 2, 2026
- Response Due Date: March 3, 2026
Additional Notes
This is a technology transfer opportunity, not a request for proposals or a procurement. All licensing activities are conducted under strict nondisclosure policies. For more information on working with LLNL, visit ipo.llnl.gov/resources. Primary Contact: Austin Smith (smith587@llnl.gov, 925-423-8469) Secondary Contact: Charlotte Eng (eng23@llnl.gov, 925-422-1905)