Milli-Kelvin Scanning Probe Microscope
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
Brookhaven Science Associates (BSA), operating Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) for the U.S. Department of Energy, is soliciting quotes for a Milli-Kelvin Scanning Probe Microscope (mK-SPM). This Firm Fixed-Price contract is for full and open competition to procure an advanced instrument for nanoscience research at the Center for Functional Nanomaterials in Upton, NY. The award will be based on the lowest total price from a responsive and responsible offeror meeting all technical requirements.
Scope of Work
The mK-SPM must operate tuning-fork-based atomic force microscopy (TF-AFM) and support scanning Microwave Impedance Microscopy (sMIM) and Scanning Resonator Microscopy (SRM). Key specifications include operation at a base temperature of <= 20 mK within a fully shielded, low-noise, high-vacuum environment, compatibility with a cryogen-free dilution refrigerator, non-magnetic design, and static/adjustable magnetic fields. Performance standards require Z vibrational noise <= 3 nm RMS and detectable tuning fork amplitude <= 1 nm.
Key deliverables include a Program Plan, Technical and Progress Teleconferences, Performance Reports, Final Technical Design, Equipment Footprint and Laboratory Requirements, Installation Work Plan, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Delivery, Site Acceptance Test and Commissioning Report, Training, and an End Item Documentation Package. The contractor is responsible for installation and on-site commissioning, with BSA providing riggers for unloading.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price
- Period of Performance: Effective from execution date through December 15, 2027
- Anticipated Delivery: Estimated 92 weeks After Receipt of Order (ARO)
- Payment Terms: Net 30 for Large/Foreign Businesses, Net 10 for Small Businesses; milestone-based payments.
- NAICS Code: 334516 (Size Standard: 1000 employees)
- Set-Aside: Full and Open Competition
Submission & Evaluation
Offerors must demonstrate previous experience fabricating and testing mK-SPM systems of comparable complexity, maintain a capable development team, possess a comprehensive U.S. instrument support network, and have a robust Quality Assurance program (ISO 9001 or similar).
Proposals must be submitted via email and include the signed Quotation Pricing Sheet (Enclosure C). Required forms include the Draft Purchase Order/Contract (A), AMS Form 050 Reps and Certs (B), Vendor ACH Authorization Form (D), and either W-9 (E) or W-8 (F) for foreign vendors. Offerors must be registered in SAM.gov; foreign vendors are exempt from SAM registration but must complete AMS-Form-050. A Small Business Subcontracting Plan may be required for offers exceeding $900,000.
Key Dates
- Questions Due: April 2, 2026
- Quote Due: April 18, 2026
Contact Information
- Primary Contact: Mark Brock (mbrock@bnl.gov, 6313442713)