18650 Li-ion Cell Computed Tomography (CT) Scan on Demand Service
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), through its NASA Shared Services Center (NSSC), has issued a Special Notice for an 18650 Li-ion Cell Computed Tomography (CT) Scan on Demand Service. This notice indicates an intent to award a sole source contract to GLIMPSE ENGINEERING, INC. for advanced CT scanning and defect identification in lithium-ion cells. However, interested organizations are invited to submit capabilities to potentially foster competition. Submissions are due by 1 p.m. Central Standard Time on February 5, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is to support NASA in assessing the quality of 200 Panasonic NCR18650GA cells using high-resolution CT scanning technology. Key tasks include:
- Performing CT scans on 200 cells at 16 µm or better resolution, with each scan lasting approximately 2 minutes per cell.
- Tracking scans by serial number.
- Providing automated analysis for critical cell characteristics such as can wall thickness, jellyroll buckling, core circularity, insufficient negative electrode overhang, housing damage (crimp height and groove gap), and metallic contamination in electrodes. The period of performance is 6 weeks ATP (Available To Promise).
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Special Notice / Intent to Sole Source
- Intended Awardee: GLIMPSE ENGINEERING, INC. (sole source determination)
- Procurement Method: Commercial items and services under FAR Part 12 and FAR Part 13.
- NAICS Code: 541715 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)).
- Place of Performance: NASA/Johnson Space Center (JSC).
- Set-Aside: This is a sole source determination; however, responses from other qualified sources may lead to a competitive procurement.
Submission & Evaluation
- Submission Requirement: Interested organizations must submit written capabilities and qualifications. Oral communications are not acceptable.
- Submission Deadline: February 5, 2026, at 1 p.m. Central Standard Time.
- Evaluation: Submissions will be evaluated solely to determine if the procurement can be conducted on a competitive basis. The government retains discretion regarding the decision to compete.
Additional Notes
NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman information is available online. The primary point of contact for this opportunity is Cara Craft at cara.s.craft@nasa.gov.