Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Microscopy System
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 United States Air Force (USAF), through the AFLCMC at Wright-Patterson AFB, is conducting market research via a Sources Sought notice to identify capable sources for a Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Microscopy System. This system is required for the Aerospace Fuels Laboratory at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, FL, to analyze particulate contamination and microscopic fibers. Responses will inform future acquisition strategy, including potential small business set-asides. Capabilities packages are due by March 10, 2026, 3:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
The required FTIR Microscopy System must be fully integrated and capable of transmission, reflection, and attenuated total reflectance (ATR) spectroscopy. Key technical requirements include:
- Imaging particles 10 µm or smaller.
- FTIR spectrometer with 0.5 cm-1 resolution or better.
- Thermoelectrically cooled MCT detector (no liquid nitrogen) covering 4000 to 800 cm-1.
- Accommodation for samples up to 47 mm wide (e.g., filter membranes).
- High-resolution 5-megapixel or better camera for optical images.
- Motorized x,y,z stage, control computer with software, licenses, and libraries for identifying polymers, fibers, and contaminants.
- Software for measuring particle dimensions to the nearest µm.
- System footprint must fit on a 30"x60" table.
- Standard 120V single phase, 60 Hz electricity.
- Vendors must provide qualified staff for installation, training, and troubleshooting.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research Only)
- Agency: Department of the Air Force, AFLCMC
- NAICS: 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing), Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 employees
- Set-Aside: None specified; potential for small business set-aside based on responses.
- Response Due: March 10, 2026, 3:00 PM ET
- Published: February 24, 2026
- Delivery: To Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, FL, within 180 days of contract award.
Submission Requirements
Interested firms must submit a capabilities package, not exceeding five (5) pages, demonstrating their ability to meet the stated requirements. Submissions should include:
- Company information (name, address, POC, DUNS/CAGE, socio-economic status, ownership).
- Statement on proprietary data and warranty information.
- Recent sales history.
- For small businesses: details on compliance with FAR 52.219-14 (Limitations on Subcontracting), teaming arrangements, and previous experience.
- Feedback on potential small business subcontracting areas.
- Capability survey questions covering facility, staff, past experience, and any product limitations.
Packages must be emailed to tracy.ferrise@us.af.mil and amanda.hoyng@us.af.mil with the subject line: "FTIR Microscopy System". Only .pdf, .doc, .docx, .xlsx, or .xls attachments are permitted.
Additional Notes
This is solely for market research; it is not a request for proposals, and responses are not offers. The Government will not reimburse costs for submissions. The assessment of capabilities will inform the acquisition strategy for any future solicitation.