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

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This SOW outlines the requirements for acquiring a Thermal Gravimetry and Differential Thermal Analysis (TG-DTA) system coupled with Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The system will support NIST's mission to develop measurement science for a resilient U.S. semiconductor ecosystem by enabling advanced thermal analysis of complex materials from semiconductor manufacturing waste streams, facilitating critical material recovery and enhancing sustainability.

• Procurement of one (1) new TG-DTA system coupled with GC-MS.

• The system must include two TG-DTA furnaces (TG-DTA1 for TG/TG-DTA up to 2000 ºC, TG-DTA2 for TG/TG-DSC up to 1600 ºC) integrated with a GC-MS.

• Specific technical requirements include precise temperature and pressure control, balance resolution, vacuum capabilities, and interchangeable sample sensors.

• The GC-MS must be capable of analyzing gases generated by both TG-DTA compartments.

• Delivery and installation of the system at NIST, Gaithersburg, MD.

• Provision of operation and maintenance manuals.

• Training for NIST personnel on system operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

• The system must meet or exceed all specified technical requirements for temperature ranges, heating rates, balance resolution, vacuum pressure, and GC-MS detection limits.

• Performance tests will be conducted using calcium oxalate and a Ni-Nb alloy to verify analytical capabilities.

• A minimum one-year warranty covering parts, labor, and travel is required.

• Delivery: Within 140 calendar days after award.

• Installation: Within 15 business days after delivery.

• Training: Within 15 business days after installation.

• Place of Performance: NIST, Gaithersburg, MD.

• All equipment must be new; experimental or prototype items are not acceptable.

• The solution must adhere to NIST's cybersecurity and privacy requirements, including data encryption and access controls.

• Contractor personnel must comply with NIST safety and security protocols, including identification badge requirements.

Vendors are requested to provide pricing for optional items including a CalVet Detector, Drop Calorimetry Detector, Immersive sensor, Knudsen effusion cells, and Miscellaneous/Spares. Higher confidence will be given to quotes including Line Item 0005 (Knudsen effusion cells).

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document, "Attachment 2 - Applicable Provisions and Clauses," outlines the solicitation provisions and contract clauses that are incorporated by reference into this solicitation. It provides links to access the full text of these provisions and clauses electronically and lists specific clauses and provisions that apply, some with deviations.

• Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference (52.252-1): Informs offerors that provisions are incorporated by reference and may require completion. Provides links to FAR Overhaul and CAR.
• Clauses Incorporated by Reference (52.252-2): Informs that clauses are incorporated by reference and may require completion. Provides links to FAR Overhaul and CAR.
• List of Incorporated Provisions and Clauses: Details numerous FAR clauses and provisions, including many with "DEVIATION JAN 2026," covering areas such as restrictions on subcontractor sales, whistleblower rights, SAM registration, executive compensation reporting, responsibility matters, small business utilization, trade agreements, and security prohibitions.
• Full Text of FAR 52.212-4 (Terms and Conditions—Commercial Products and Commercial Services): Provides the complete text for this critical clause, covering definitions, inspection/acceptance, assignment, changes, disputes, excusable delays, invoice requirements, patent indemnity, payment terms, risk of loss, taxes, termination (convenience and cause), title, warranty, limitation of liability, compliance with laws, order of precedence, unauthorized obligations, Comptroller General examination of records, and incorporation by reference of representations and certifications.
• Specific Provisions (52.225-6, 52.225-18, 52.240-90): Includes detailed requirements and representations related to Trade Agreements, Place of Manufacture, and Security Prohibitions and Exclusions (including telecommunications equipment, FASCSA orders, Sudan, and Iran).
• NIST Local Clauses: Includes specific clauses related to Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) designation, agency protests, GAO and Court of Federal Claims protests, place of acceptance, contractor performance during NIST operating status changes, and electronic billing instructions (including IPP).

This document is critical for understanding the legal and regulatory framework of the contract. Bidders must review the listed provisions and clauses, particularly those with deviations, to ensure compliance. The full text of FAR 52.212-4 and other specific provisions (e.g., Trade Agreements, Place of Manufacture, Security Prohibitions) outline key terms, conditions, and representations required in an offer. Understanding these requirements is essential for preparing a compliant and competitive proposal. Bidders must pay close attention to representations and certifications, especially those related to foreign-made goods, security, and business operations in specific countries.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation (RFQ) for commercial products or services, prepared in accordance with FAR Part 12. The acquisition is for a Thermogravimetric Analyzer with Gas Chromatography (GC) – Mass Spectrometry (MS), including optional items and installation. The solicitation is for unrestricted competition.

• CLIN 0001: TG-DTA coupled with GC-MS (IAW Attachment 1)

• CLIN 0002: Optional Item 1 - CalVet Detector (IAW Attachment 1)

• CLIN 0003: Optional Item 2 - Drop Calorimetry Detector (IAW Attachment 1)

• CLIN 0004: Optional Item 3 - Immersive sensor (IAW Attachment 1)

• CLIN 0005: Optional Item 4 - Knudsen effusion cells (IAW Attachment 1)

• CLIN 0006: Optional Item 5 - Miscellaneous and Spares (IAW Attachment 1)

• CLIN 0007: Installation for CLINs 0001-0003 (IAW Attachment 1)

• CLIN 0008: Other related transportation expenses (Not-to-Exceed amount)

• The full requirements are detailed in Attachment 1 - STATEMENT OF WORK- CHIPS R&D (FY26).

• Contract Type: Firm-fixed-price quotation requested.

• Period of Performance: Delivery and acceptance dates are in the SOW.

• Estimated Value: Not specified.

• Submission Deadline: March 10, 2025, 11:00 am Eastern Time.

• Submission Method: Electronic quotations via email to tracy.retterer@nist.gov and Donald.collie@nist.gov. Reference RFQ number in the subject line.

• Inquiries Deadline: Questions must be submitted in writing to both email addresses no later than 5 calendar days after solicitation issuance.

• Quotation Structure: Must be divided into four distinct volumes:

  • Volume I: Technical Quotation (addressing technical approach, capability, and adherence to SOW requirements with evidence)
  • Volume II: Demonstrated Experience (past 5 years, prime or subcontractor)
  • Volume III: Price Quotation (firm-fixed-price per CLIN, separate from other volumes)
  • Volume IV: Terms and Conditions (complete required information and state acceptance/exceptions)

• Evaluation Criteria: Best value award, considering price and non-price factors. Non-price factors (Technical Capability and Prior Demonstrated Experience) are more important than price. Awards may be made without discussions based on initial quotes.

  • Factor 1: Technical Capability (confidence rating based on meeting SOW requirements)
  • Factor 2: Prior Demonstrated Experience (confidence rating based on similar instrument delivery/service)
  • Factor 3: Price (evaluated for fairness and reasonableness on quotes with high confidence in non-price factors)

• Competition: Unrestricted.

• SAM.gov Registration: Active registration in SAM.gov is required at the time of quotation submission and through award/performance/payment.

• NAICS Code: 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing, with a small business size standard of 1,000 employees.

• Reference FAR 52.212-1 (DEVIATION Jan 2026) and Addendum to FAR 52.212-2 (DEVIATION Jan 2026).

• Attachment 2 contains applicable Provisions and Clauses.

• Price quotations must remain valid for 90 days.

• Offerors proposing products manufactured outside the U.S. must identify other or unknown charges (e.g., tariffs) separately.