Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometer

NASA/GSFC has a requirement for a hybrid gas chromatography mass spectrometer coupled to an isotope ratio mass spectrometer (GC-MS/IRMS).

NASA/GSFC intends to issue a sole source contract to acquire the hybrid gas chromatography mass spectrometer coupled to an isotope ratio mass spectrometer (GC-MS/IRMS) from Thermo Electron North America LLC, 1400 Northpoint Pkwy Suite 10, West Palm Beach, Florida as they are the sole source capable of fulfilling the Government's requirement , e.g. under the authority of FAR 6.302). The GC-MS/IRMS system shall be delivered to the Astrobiology Analytical Laboratory at NASA Goddard and installed. The technician shall perform the necessary work to set up the system and connect it to the electrical and gas supplies in the laboratory. The requirements are as follows:

A programmable gas chromatograph capable of split/splitless injections. The injector must feature constant flow and pressure modes, programmable flow and pressure modes, leak check and column evaluation, and a maximum temperature of 400°C. A 10 kV Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer including universal CNOS collector configuration (5 faraday cups with 5 amplifiers) and HD collector (with 2 additional faraday cups with amplifiers).

An electron impact ionization source for the mass spectrometer and a Qtegra ISDS Software ready computer package. A mass spectrometer with a mass range of 1.2 – 1100.0 u., a resolving power of at least 20,000, and an acquisition of at least 120 mass spectra/second. The mass spectrometer must have a linear dynamic range of >10,000 and sensitivity of at least 100 fg octofluoronaphthalene.

The suite must come with two software licenses, for data analysis, the most recent NIST MS library, the ability to generate mass defect plots, van Krevelen, and Carbon Number vs. RDBE extensions with molecular formula classifications. An Energy Star rated, 36 CFR part 1194 compliant, Windows PC to operate the software and the instrument. The necessary pumps and gas purifiers to operate the system. Installation must be included. Familiarization training is required to train potential users of the instrument suite.

A one-year warranty is required. The vendor must have a nationally recognized expertise with GC and MS design and an established history of instrument support and service. The Government intends to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort electronically via email to Ronda Stone at ronda.r.stone@nasa.gov not later than 4pm Eastern Standard Time on (Insert date-normally 15 days after posting).

Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this acquisition on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this acquisition on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government. NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at : https://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/procurement/regs/Procurement-Ombuds-Comp-Advocate-Listing.pdf