Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft Pulp for Fiber Product Research
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 contractors capable of providing Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft (NBSK) Pulp for fiber product research. This is for planning purposes only and is not a solicitation. Responses are due March 5, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST requires approximately 5 air dried metric tons (ADMT) of NBSK pulp bales. Key specifications include a minimum of 87 ISO brightness, 2.0 mm average fiber length, and 90% air-dry content. The pulp bales must be appropriately wrapped with pulp sheets and wire wraps, or a suitable alternative, to protect them during transit and storage.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- NAICS Code: 322110 (Pulp Mills), Small Business Size Standard: 1,050 employees
- Set-Aside: None specified (seeking responses from all responsible sources, including large and small businesses)
- Response Due: March 5, 2026, 6:00 PM ET
- Published: February 4, 2026
- Anticipated Follow-on: RFQ in Q3 FY26, contract award no later than Q4 FY26.
Response Requirements
Interested parties should email a written response to donald.graham@nist.gov describing their capabilities. Responses must include:
- Company information (Name, Address, UEID, CAGE code, POC).
- Small business certifications (if applicable).
- Description of capabilities related to providing NBSK pulp.
- Previous experience.
- Indication of GSA FSS, GWACs, or other existing Government-wide contract vehicles and contract numbers.
- Any other relevant information for market research. Responses are limited to 12 pages in MS Word format, 8.5x11 inch, Times New Roman 11pt font, with 1-inch margins.
Additional Notes
This is a Sources Sought Notice ONLY for planning purposes. NIST does not intend to award a contract based on this notice and will not pay for information submitted. Proprietary data should be clearly marked.