RFI - Modular Autonomous Thin Film Robotic Laboratory
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 Department of Energy's Brookhaven Science Associates (BSA) is conducting a Sources Sought/Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential sources capable of providing a Modular Autonomous Thin Film Robotic Laboratory. This RFI aims to understand industry capabilities for a robotic system designed to autonomously prepare libraries of solution-deposited thin films. Responses are due February 28, 2026.
Scope of Work
BSA is seeking a robotic system with specific technical capabilities, including:
- System Design: Must fit within 2.5 meters x 1.5 meters, with a total height less than 2.0 meters. It requires two mobile, lockable tables: a primary table for core processing (solution prep, casting, annealing) and an ancillary table for additional instruments.
- Robotics: At least two robots are needed for sample handling and transfer, capable of handling samples with rectangular projected areas from 10 mm to 25 mm, 200-800 micrometers thick, at temperatures from room temperature to 250°C or higher.
- Processing: Automated liquid handling (40-500 µL), spin coating (50-5000 rpm), blade coating (1-50 mm/s), and at least four thermal annealing instruments (30-250°C range).
- Software: Must feature an open, documented Python-based API to enable interoperability with third-party robots and instruments.
- Solution Prep: Automated preparation of solutions via dispensation of 5+ liquids/powders with 1% resolution.
- Safety: Robotic operations must have force/velocity limits and easily accessible emergency stops.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- NAICS: 333248 – All Other Industrial Machinery Manufacturing (Size Standard: 750 Employees)
- Set-Aside: None specified; BSA reserves the right to consider a small business set-aside based on responses.
- Response Due: February 28, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET
- Published: January 28, 2026
Submission Requirements
Interested vendors should submit a Statement of Capabilities (SOC) electronically, demonstrating their ability to meet the outlined technical specifications. Responses must include company details (name, address, SAM UEI, point of contact with email and phone, business size) and address specific questions detailed in the RFI regarding capabilities, price estimates, site preparation, facility requirements, electrical safety certifications, country of origin, warranty, and examples of past installations. Do not include marketing material.
Additional Notes
This notice is for market research and planning purposes only and is not a solicitation or a commitment to award a contract. Any costs incurred by responders are not reimbursable.