A--Technical Support for Ontology Development and Implementation for Life Cycle Ass

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Research and Development, National Risk Management Research Laboratory, Sustainable Technology Division (STD) located in Cincinnati, Ohio is developing a new data architecture for managing data related to life cycle assessment (LCA) that is based on the Resource Description Framework (RDF). The RDF uses ontologies (linked vocabularies specific to a domain model) to structure data for new knowledge discoveries. This technology is the basis for semantic web data sharing and provides a powerful tool to integrate complex models such as near field exposure modeling and life cycle impact assessment. The key component of the desired system will be the underlying life cycle human exposure modeling ontology. An existing ontology called ECO is being implemented and extended to a limited extent in a stand-alone tool used for harmonizing different LCA datasets (LCA Harmonization Tool). Other ontologies for LCA have been prop osed or are under development. The appropriate connection of data when linking various domain models is vital for establishing an efficient database for rapid chemical assessment. The scope of work covered under the Statement of Work shall include: 1) Optimization of semantic technologies - The contractor shall provide sematic technology expert review of either existing or planned semantic technologies in US EPA?s LCA research group. These technologies include the application of RDF in the LCA Harmonization Tool (existing), the US EPA RDF-based expanded LCA database (planned), and a LCA web portal for the Federal Commons (planned) to be developed by US EPA. 2) Refinement of a domain model ontology for Life Cycle Assessment - The contractor shall deliver an ontology with documentation of development describing a domain model for life cycle assessment using formats specified by the EPA COR. 3) Development of ontology linkages for domain models related to Life Cycle Human Exposure Modeling - The contractor shall deliver a report describing the optimal method for linking a LCA ontology with additional ontologies necessary for including Life Cycle Human Exposure Modeling in life cycle impact assessment. This will be competed in accordance with FAR Part 13 procedures. It is our intent to award a single fixed price purchase order to one vendor for a duration of one year. This requirement is anticipated to be a total small business set aside. The NAICS code 541512, the size standard is $25.5 million. The request for quotation (RFQ) will be posted at the following website: www.fedconnect.net. It is the responsibility of the offerors to monitor the Fedconnect website for changes or updates. No hard copies will be available. All responsible small business sources may submit a quotation which will be considered by the agency. Primary Point of Contact.: Renita Tyus Contracting Officer tyus.renita@epa.gov Phone: 513-487-2094 Fax: 513-487-2109