B--PCM ICP SAMPLE ANALYSIS
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. Geological Survey (USGS) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought announcement for isotope analyses of ferromanganese crust and nodule samples. This effort aims to identify qualified businesses capable of performing osmium (Os) isotope analyses for the Global Seabed Mineral Resources team's research. This is for planning purposes only and is not a request for quote or proposal. Responses are due June 5, 2026, at 8 AM Pacific time.
Scope of Work
The required services include the preparation and analysis of ferromanganese crusts and nodules sub-samples for osmium (187Os/188Os) isotopes. Contractors must utilize a high-pressure asher for sample preparation and a Neptune inductively coupled mass spectrometer with three ion counters for analysis. Expertise in Os isotope data processing is essential, and samples will be prepared in a class 1000 clean lab.
Deliverables
Contractors will be required to deliver osmium isotope results as an electronic data file. This file must include at least one isotope ratio value per sample and associated error/uncertainty values. Results are expected within six months of service initiation, delivered via email or other electronic data transfer.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Duration: Anticipated Period of Performance: July 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: June 5, 2026, 8 AM Pacific time
- Published: May 28, 2026
Place of Performance
Services will be performed at the contractor's independent laboratory.
Additional Notes
This announcement is solely for planning purposes to assist the Government in determining its acquisition strategy. The Government will not pay for any costs incurred in preparing responses. All data rights will belong to the USGS, and no Government Furnished Property (GFP) will be provided.