Coincident gamma ray detection system, High purity germanium detector,
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 Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice to identify potential sources capable of providing a Coincident gamma ray detection system, specifically a High Purity Germanium (HPGe) detector. This system is critical for advancing measurement science in the semiconductor industry. Responses are due by April 16, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST seeks to procure one (1) HPGe detector with cryo-cooling, a transport cart, shielding sets, onboard efficiency calibration, and a perpetual software license. The detector will be integrated into a neutron/gamma field generated by a portable neutron generator for coincidence detection. Its primary use is to acquire high energy resolution prompt gamma spectra from thermal neutron-irradiated samples, enabling absolute efficiency calibration for elemental quantification. This capability is essential for minimizing background gamma rays, improving signal-to-noise ratio, and enhancing detection limits for critical elements (e.g., H, B, N) in semiconductor materials, which significantly impact product quality. The project aims to demonstrate the potential for routine lab use of portable neutron generator-based Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis (PGAA) for the semiconductor industry.
Technical specifications include: N-type coaxial HPGe detector with on-board cryo-cooling, 3.00” endcap diameter, Al endcap window, efficiency > 25%, energy resolution WHM at 1332 keV < 2 keV, peak to Compton ratio > 50, and a transistor reset preamplifier. It must include a transport cart and collimator shielding, with self-contained efficiency calibration.
Response Requirements
Interested sources should provide:
- Company name, address, contact information, and UEI (if SAM registered).
- Manufacturer name, model number, and technical specifications of recommended equipment.
- Performance capabilities, potential for customization, and any limitations.
- Identification of any unmet NIST specifications and suggestions for improvement.
- Manufacturing location (country) and any planned changes.
- Small business status for NAICS 6640 (Laboratory Equipment And Supplies), or suggest an alternative NAICS.
- Available services (installation, training, maintenance).
- Standard terms and conditions of sale (delivery, FOB, warranty, manuals).
- Facility renovation services capability.
- Published price, discount, or rebate arrangements.
- Federal Supply Schedule or other contract vehicle information.
- Customer references (public or private sector).
- Any other valuable information for NIST's market research.
- Indicate if additional information or a meeting with NIST is required.
Proprietary information should NOT be included. Responses must be in Microsoft Word 365, Excel 365, or .pdf format.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: April 16, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Published: April 2, 2026
Additional Notes
This notice is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a commitment by NIST to issue a solicitation or award a contract. The Government will not pay for information provided. Responses will be used to determine industry capabilities and potential small business participation.