Sources Sought Benchtop EPR/ESR Spectrometer
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 a Sources Sought to identify potential vendors capable of providing a Benchtop EPR/ESR Spectrometer. This is a market research effort to determine the acquisition method and potential small business set-aside opportunities. Responses are due by June 26, 2026, at 5:00 PM MT.
Scope of Work
NIST's Magnetic Imaging Group (MIG) requires a Benchtop EPR/ESR Spectrometer to enhance magnetic resonance measurement capabilities, particularly for free radicals and nano-particle composites. Key specifications include:
- Operational Frequency: X-band (8 to 12 GHz)
- Sensitivity: 5 x 10^10 spins/mT or better
- Weak Pitch S/N Ratio: 600:1 or better
- Microwave Power: 10 uW to 100 mW (recommended 1 uW to 200 mW)
- Field Homogeneity: ±5 uT (50 mG) or better
- Magnetic Field Sweep Range: -10 to 650 mT (recommended -1000 to 6500 mT or better)
- Modulation Frequency: 10 kHz to 100 kHz (recommended higher)
- Resonator: Unloaded Q of 5000 or better
- Warranty: Minimum 3 years (5 years preferred)
- Software: Windows 11 compatible, local operation, automated calibration/tuning, data processing, Python compatibility.
Separately Priced Options/Services include a Liquid Nitrogen Variable Temperature Control System (95 K to 450 K required, 95 K to 550 K preferred), an Optical Irradiation System (350 nm to 750 nm), and an Automated Goniometer (0-360 degrees, 0.1-degree step resolution).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research Tool)
- NAICS Code: 334516, Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing
- Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 employees
- Response Due: June 26, 2026, 5:00 PM MT
- Published: June 12, 2026
- Place of Performance: Boulder, CO
Submission Requirements
Interested organizations should submit electronic capability statements, limited to four (4) pages or less, to Angela Hitt (angela.hitt@nist.gov). Submissions must include:
- Name of the company providing the product.
- Name of the company manufacturing the product.
- Country of origin/manufacture.
- Spec/data sheets demonstrating experience.
- Typical lead time for delivery.
- Any other relevant information for developing specifications.
Evaluation & Purpose
This is not a Request for Quotation or Proposals. Responses will be used to identify potential and eligible firms of all sizes, including small businesses, and to determine if any Small Business Set-aside opportunities exist. NIST is seeking responses from all responsible sources, including large and small businesses, and specifically requests the country of manufacture for the product.
Additional Notes
Company sales brochures or marketing packages will not be considered. Proprietary information should be marked. The government will not pay for information received. This notice is DRAFT and subject to change.