Rare Earth Separation and Purifications
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 Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Strategic Materials Directorate has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for Rare Earth Separation and Purifications. This RFI is for planning purposes only, seeking information from industry on capabilities to separate and purify approximately 12,600 kg of government-furnished rare earth oxides (REOs) into individual REOs. Responses are due by February 11, 2026, 12:00 PM EST.
Scope of Work
The RFI focuses on the separation and purification of a specific REO mixture, described as a fine powder with an approximate composition detailed in the RFI document. The goal is to convert this mixture into individual REOs. Potential delivery locations include Hammond Depot, IN; Hawthorne Depot, NV; and Scotia Depot, NY.
Information Requested from Vendors
Vendors are requested to submit a comprehensive capability statement, including:
- General company data: Name, structure, parent company, contract numbers, socioeconomic status, CAGE code, UEI, size, address, and point of contact.
- Experience: Examples of direct and non-prime experience performing similar work, including contract details, scope, value, length, functions performed, and role.
- Technical Capabilities: Relevant regulations, certifications, equipment, and detailed process information for REO separation and purification (capacity, feedstock requirements, recovery percentages, purities, rapid response tools, impurity effects, and controls for hazardous materials like U and Th).
- Market & Delivery Information: Industry and market insights related to REO separation and purification (domestic and international), delivery timelines, quantities, subcontractors, origin locations, delivery capacity, lot/batch size, discounts, packaging, and safety concerns.
- Financial Resources: Ability to support the effort.
- Teaming: Intentions regarding teaming or subcontracting arrangements.
- Questions: Any questions or clarification requests regarding the RFI.
Submission & Timeline
- Response Due: February 11, 2026, 12:00 PM EST.
- Format: Responses are limited to 20 pages, single-sided, in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF, using 12-point font on 8.5 x 11 paper with 1-inch margins. Proprietary information must be clearly marked.
- Submission Method: Email responses and questions to Wanda Willis (wanda.willis@dla.mil) with the subject line "RFI Rare Earth Separations and Purifications."
- Published: January 21, 2026.
Additional Notes
This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a commitment by the government to acquire any supplies or services. Responses are voluntary, will not be returned, and all associated costs are at the vendor's expense. The information provided is subject to change and is not binding on the government. Responses may be used for acquisition strategy development and a future RFQ.