Sputter coater for scanning electron microscopy
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 sources for a Sputter Coater for Scanning Electron Microscopy. This system is required for the NIST Precision Imaging Facility (PIF) in Boulder, CO, to support the CHIPS for America Act by providing final thinning for transmission electron microscope specimens and supporting various imaging instruments. Responses are due by April 30, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST seeks a sputter coater with specific technical capabilities:
- Functionality: Capable of depositing various metals from targets and carbon from "pencil" or "braid" sources, with user-changeable targets/sources.
- Chamber/Stage: Must accommodate specimens up to 50 mm/2 inches in diameter, allow simple loading/unloading, and have spaces for multiple pin-stub style holders, interchangeable with other application-specific stages.
- Process Gasses: Shall accommodate at least one process gas (e.g., argon).
- Vacuum System: Shall include or be compatible with a turbo pump/station, include all necessary oil-free vacuum pumps, and have fully controllable functions from the user interface.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: April 30, 2026, 21:00 ET
- Published: April 16, 2026
Response Requirements
Interested parties should submit responses in Microsoft Word 365, Excel 365, or .pdf format via email to the Primary Point of Contact. Responses should not exceed 20 pages and must include:
- Company information (name, address, contact, UEI).
- Details of equipment meeting requirements (manufacturer, model, specs, reseller status).
- Performance capabilities, customization limits, and suggestions for improving competitiveness.
- Manufacturing location and any planned changes.
- Small business status for the NAICS code, or suggested alternative NAICS.
- Available services (installation, training, maintenance, facility renovation).
- Standard terms and conditions of sale, pricing information, and existing federal contract details.
- Customer references and any other valuable information.
- Indication if additional information or a meeting with NIST is required. 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. Responses will not be considered an adequate response to any future solicitation. Registration in SAM is required for any potential future award. Questions should be submitted at least 5 days prior to the response date.