Ion mill for transmission electron microscope specimens
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 for an ion milling system for transmission electron microscope specimens. This system is crucial for the NIST Precision Imaging Facility (PIF) to support the CHIPS for America Act. The system will provide final thinning for TEM specimens. Responses are due by April 30, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST requires an ion milling system with specific technical capabilities:
- Functionality: Capable of milling/polishing TEM specimens using one or more ion beams.
- Chamber/Stage: Must hold standard 3mm TEM grids and/or half grids, with a 360° rotating stage. Offerors should comment on liquid nitrogen cooling capability.
- Ion Source(s): Two or more independently adjustable ion sources with adjustable energy and angle. Offerors should comment on motorized angle capability.
- Imaging & Illumination: Includes a microscope for in-situ imaging with built-in illumination.
- Process Gasses: Accommodates at least one process gas (e.g., argon).
- Vacuum System: Includes or is compatible with a turbo pump/station, all required pumps must be oil-free and fully controllable from the user interface.
Response Requirements
Respondents should provide company information (name, address, contact, UEI), details of equipment meeting the requirements (manufacturer, model, technical specifications, reseller status), performance capabilities, customization limits, and any aspects of the notice that cannot be met with suggestions for improvement. Additionally, information on manufacturing location, small/other than small business status (for the NAICS code mentioned in the notice), alternative NAICS codes, available services (installation, training, maintenance), standard terms and conditions, facility renovation services, pricing, existing Federal Supply Schedule contracts, and customer references are requested. Responses should not exceed 20 pages and should not include proprietary information.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: April 30, 2026, 5:00 PM MT
- Published: April 16, 2026
- Place of Performance: Boulder, CO
Additional Notes
This is for market research only and does not guarantee a solicitation or contract award. The Government is not obligated to pay for information provided. Questions must be submitted via email to the Primary Point of Contact at least 5 days prior to the response date. Responses will not be considered an adequate response to any future solicitation.
Primary Point of Contact: Cielo Ibarra (cielo.ibarra@nist.gov)