Fluorescent Phosphate Optical Glass Units
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 & Technology (NIST) intends to negotiate on a sole source basis with Starna Cells, Inc. for Fluorescent Phosphate Optical Glass Units. This action is taken under statutory authority 41 U.S.C. 1901. Interested parties who believe they can fulfill these requirements are invited to submit responses for government consideration. Responses are due by March 11, 2026.
Purpose & Justification
NIST's Biosystems and Biomaterials Division requires these specific units for the candidate NIST Standard Reference Material SRM 2943a (Blue Emission). The manufacturing process for these high-purity, optical-quality phosphate glass units with added copper is unique and chemically reactive, demanding specialized handling. Market research and historical procurement data indicate that Starna Cells, Inc. is the sole U.S. small business provider of these specific units, having supplied them for over 40 years.
Contract Details
The resulting order is anticipated to be a Firm-Fixed Price purchase order. The NAICS code for this requirement is 327212 – Other Pressed & Blown Glass & Glassware Manufacturing, with a small size standard of 1,250 employees.
Submission & Response
This notice serves as an announcement of intent and is not a request for competitive quotations or a solicitation package. However, any interested party who believes they are capable of fulfilling these requirements is invited to submit a statement of capabilities for the Government's consideration.
Key Dates & Contact
- Published Date: March 2, 2026
- Response Due: March 11, 2026, by 4:00 PM ET
- Contact: Tish Walker (latish.walker@nist.gov)