Sources Sought Reticle Blanks
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 Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify potential suppliers for Reticle Blanks. These blanks are essential for fabricating microelectronics circuits using optical wafer steppers at their Boulder, CO facility. Responses are due by February 6, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST requires suppliers capable of providing 400 to 1500 reticle blanks annually. These blanks are used to transfer patterns onto wafers. Key specifications include:
- Must meet SEMI Spec SEMI P1-0708 standards.
- Material: Soda lime glass or quartz.
- Dimensions: 6" x 6" square transparent substrates.
- Coating: Chromium (Cr) based opaque material and photoresist.
- Thickness: Nominal 0.12" or 0.25".
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Product Service Code (PSC): 6640 - Laboratory Equipment And Supplies
- Response Due: February 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET
- Published: January 23, 2026
- Place of Performance: Boulder, CO, United States
Submission & Evaluation
Suppliers must have demonstrated experience providing reticle blanks that meet SEMI Spec SEMI P1-0708 as a standard catalogue item. One-off, prototypes, or sample parts will not be considered for award. The government reserves the right to receive or purchase a sample blank to ensure compatibility with their steppers and adherence to specified standards.
Additional Notes
This notice is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or request for proposal. Its intent is to identify potential sources. For inquiries, contact Forest Crumpler at forest.crumpler@nist.gov.