How to bid on a Technology Licensing Opportunity: Soniccoat from Los Alamos National Laboratory

What Los Alamos National Laboratory is offering

Los Alamos National Laboratory is offering licensing opportunities for SonicCoat, a non-destructive ultrasonic system designed to measure catalyst coatings during production. This technology is aimed at manufacturers of fuel cells, electrolyzers, batteries, solar films, semiconductors, and other coated products. SonicCoat is a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 technology with a U.S. patent pending (LA-UR-26-28073).

The system uses acoustic resonance spectroscopy to inspect coatings in place while the production line continues to run. This allows for real-time quality control without stopping the process, pulling samples, or damaging parts. The goal is to improve yield, ensure uniform device performance, and reduce material costs by precisely monitoring catalyst deposition layer by layer.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This licensing opportunity was published on September 10, 2026. The deadline for expressing interest is December 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM ET. This is not a request for proposals for external development services; rather, it is an invitation for companies to license the existing SonicCoat technology.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for companies involved in manufacturing electrochemical devices, batteries, solar energy components, semiconductors, or any products requiring precise application and monitoring of thin coatings. Firms that can integrate this non-destructive, real-time quality control system into their production lines to enhance efficiency and reduce waste would find this technology particularly beneficial. Both exclusive and non-exclusive licenses may be available.

How to respond

To access the full details of this opportunity, click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account to view any associated documents, though this is not always required for every bid. For specific discussions regarding licensing, you can contact [email protected].

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

When considering a technology licensing opportunity like this, clearly articulate how your company plans to commercialize and integrate SonicCoat into your existing or future product lines. Highlight your market position, manufacturing capabilities, and any relevant experience with similar technologies or target markets. Provide a clear business case demonstrating the potential impact of SonicCoat on your operations and products.

Focus on how licensing this technology aligns with your strategic goals and how you envision bringing it to market. Detail your resources, including technical expertise and financial capacity, to successfully implement and scale the technology. A well-structured plan that addresses both the technical and business aspects of commercialization will strengthen your licensing proposal.