CHIPS R&D Thermogravimetric Analyzer with Gas Chromatography (GC) – Mass Spectrometry (MS)

Quick Summary

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), under the Department of Commerce, is soliciting quotations for a Thermogravimetric Analyzer with Gas Chromatography (GC) – Mass Spectrometry (MS) system. This acquisition supports NIST's CHIPS R&D mission in Gaithersburg, MD, focusing on semiconductor ecosystem development. This is an unrestricted competition. Quotations are due March 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM ET.

Purpose & Scope of Work

NIST requires a new Thermal Gravimetry and Differential Thermal Analysis (TG-DTA) system coupled with Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). This system will enable advanced thermal analysis of complex materials from semiconductor manufacturing waste streams, facilitating critical material recovery and enhancing sustainability. The scope includes:

• Procurement of one new TG-DTA system with two furnaces (TG-DTA1 up to 2000 °C, TG-DTA2 up to 1600 °C) integrated with a GC-MS capable of analyzing gases from both compartments.
• Specific technical requirements for temperature/pressure control, balance resolution, vacuum capabilities, and interchangeable sample sensors.
• Delivery, installation, provision of operation/maintenance manuals, and training for NIST personnel at Gaithersburg, MD.
• All equipment must be new, adhering to NIST cybersecurity, privacy, safety, and security protocols.

Key Deliverables (CLINs)

The solicitation requests firm-fixed-price quotations for:

• CLIN 0001: TG-DTA coupled with GC-MS (per SOW).
• Optional Items (CLINs 0002-0006): CalVet Detector, Drop Calorimetry Detector, Immersive sensor, Knudsen effusion cells (higher confidence for this item), and Miscellaneous/Spares.
• CLIN 0007: Installation for CLINs 0001-0003.
• CLIN 0008: Other related transportation expenses (Not-to-Exceed).

Contract Details & Timeline

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price.
• Set-Aside: Unrestricted Competition.
• NAICS Code: 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 employees).
• Place of Performance: NIST, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, United States.
• Delivery: Within 140 calendar days after award.
• Installation: Within 15 business days after delivery.
• Training: Within 15 business days after installation.
• Warranty: Minimum one-year covering parts, labor, and travel.

Submission Requirements

• Quotation Deadline: March 10, 2025, 11:00 AM Eastern Time.
• Inquiries Deadline: Within 5 calendar days after solicitation issuance (submit in writing).
• Submission Method: Electronic via email to tracy.retterer@nist.gov and donald.collie@nist.gov, referencing the RFQ number in the subject line.
• Quotation Structure: Must be divided into four volumes: Technical Quotation, Demonstrated Experience, Price Quotation, and Terms and Conditions.
• Validity: Price quotations must remain valid for 90 days.

Evaluation Criteria

Award will be made on a Best Value basis, considering price and non-price factors. Non-price factors are more important than price.

• Factor 1: Technical Capability (confidence rating based on meeting SOW requirements).
• Factor 2: Prior Demonstrated Experience (confidence rating based on similar instrument delivery/service within the past 5 years).
• Factor 3: Price (evaluated for fairness and reasonableness for quotes with high confidence in non-price factors).
• The Government may award without discussions.

Important Notes

Bidders must have an active SAM.gov registration at the time of quotation submission and throughout the contract period. Attachment 2 details applicable provisions and clauses, including deviations and specific requirements related to Trade Agreements, Place of Manufacture, and Security Prohibitions, which must be reviewed for compliance. Offerors proposing products manufactured outside the U.S. must identify any tariffs or other charges separately.

Contacts

• Primary: Tracy Retterer (Tracy.retterer@nist.gov)
• Secondary: Donald Collie (donald.collie@nist.gov)