Microwave Digester to dissolve materials in acid solutions
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 Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), through its Shared Services Center, has issued a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for a Microwave Digestion System. This is a Brand Name or Equal To requirement, specifically for a system capable of dissolving materials in acid solutions. This procurement is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Quotes are due by May 6, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. CT.
Scope of Work
NASA requires a Microwave Digestion System with enhanced corrosion resistance to withstand hydrochloric acid and aqua regia, and compatibility with nitric and hydrofluoric acids. The system must feature automated acid removal and utilize a pressure digestion cavity (not rotor-based). It must be capable of reaching temperatures up to 300°C and pressures up to 199 bar, and include an integrated cooling system. While larger vessels are used with hot blocks, high vessel capacity is not a critical requirement for this application, with typical sample digestion requiring about 5 mL for 100-200 mg samples.
Contract Details
This is a Firm Fixed Priced contract with delivery FOB Destination. Payment terms are Net 30. Delivery of the system is required within 12 weeks of the vendor's receipt of the purchase order. The NAICS Code for this procurement is 334516 - Laboratory Equipment And Supplies.
Submission & Evaluation
Quotes must be submitted via email to Laura Quave (laura.a.quave@nasa.gov) by May 6, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. CT. All contractual and technical questions must be submitted in writing to Laura Quave by May 5, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. CT; telephone questions will not be accepted. Quotes must remain valid for 30 days and include Cage Code & UEI #, ARO delivery time/Lead Time, shipping information (if applicable), and any discounts. The government will not pay with a credit card. Award will be made to the responsible Offeror whose offer is the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA). Offers not deemed technically acceptable will be removed from consideration.
Eligibility & Set-Aside
This procurement is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Offerors must be registered at www.sam.gov to be considered for award.
Key Dates
- Questions Due: May 5, 2026, 3:00 p.m. CT
- Quotes Due: May 6, 2026, 4:00 p.m. CT
- Published: May 5, 2026
Contact Information
Primary Point of Contact: Laura Quave (laura.a.quave@nasa.gov, 228-813-6420)