Sources Sought Notice for CHIPS R&D Thermogravimetric Analyzer with Gas Chromatography (GC) – Mass Spectrometry (MS)
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 via a Sources Sought Notice for a CHIPS R&D Thermogravimetric Analyzer with Gas Chromatography (GC) – Mass Spectrometry (MS). This procurement aims to acquire a vital laboratory platform for advanced thermal analysis of complex materials related to semiconductor manufacturing waste streams, supporting the CHIPS Metrology Program. Responses are due January 26, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
NIST's Materials Measurement Laboratory (MML) Materials Science and Engineering Division (MSED) is developing a vacuum distillation recovery process for critical materials from recycled microelectronics waste. The required instrument will enable simultaneous thermal gravimetric measurement, calorimetry, temperature measurements, and quantification of evaporated vapors. It will consist of two components: thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA), coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The system will include two TG-DTA compartments (TG-DTA1 for TG/DTA up to 2000°C, TG-DTA2 for TG/DSC up to 1600°C), both coupled with GC-MS. Key requirements include precise temperature and pressure control, high balance resolution (<=0.1 µg), and a fully computerized system with data analysis software.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Anticipated Procurement: FY2026
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: January 26, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Published: January 12, 2026
Response Requirements
Interested manufacturers should provide company details (UEI, contact info), product information (manufacturer, model, technical specifications, reseller status), performance capabilities, customization limits, and any aspects of the notice they cannot meet. Respondents should also state manufacturing location, small business status (for NAICS 6640), alternative NAICS codes, available services (installation, training, maintenance), standard terms and conditions, facility renovation services, pricing, and existing Federal Supply Schedule contracts. Proprietary information should not be included.
Additional Notes
This is a market research notice only and does not constitute a commitment to issue a solicitation or award a contract. NIST will use the information to determine potential sources and capabilities.