Water Condensation Growth Tube Particle Impactor

SAM ANNOUNCEMENT:

PRESOLICITATION NOTICE, NOTICE OF INTENT ACTION CODE:

SPECIAL NOTICE CLASSIFICATION CODE: 6640 –Laboratory Equipment SUBJECT: Water Condensation Growth Tube Particle Impactor for Trace Chemical Detection SOLICITATION NUMBER:

NB643050-24-02334 RESPONSE DATE:

08/05/2024 DESCRIPTION: The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) intends to negotiate on a sole source basis, under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), with Handix Scientific, located in Fort Collins, CO to provide a Series 302 BioSpot-GE aerosol sampler. Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group of the Materials Measurement Science Division of the Materials Measurement Laboratory has significant research efforts in the fields of forensic science and homeland security.

One of the major focuses of these efforts involves development of new methods for the collection and detection of trace explosives and drugs from luggage, people and their divestible property at aviation and security check points. To enhance these capabilities NIST is looking to procure a portable water condensation growth tube sampling system for collection, focusing and impaction of contraband particle onto a solid substrate for subsequent chemical screening analysis.

A significant challenge in effective trace chemical screening is the front-end sample collection and preconcentration of contraband materials. Sole Source justification is based on the following:

The manufacturer, Handix Scientific, has stated that there are no alternative commercial instruments using this proprietary combined technique of sampling and gentle impaction. Numerous published papers from independent researchers support the unique effectiveness of the Aerosol Devices, a division of Handix Scientific series of samplers and particle counters, including the ability to collect fine particles, concentration of sample and maintaining viability of microorganisms.

The BioSpot-GEM collector uses multiple patented condensation growth tube technologies to achieve this. Handix Scientific is the sole distributor for their products domestically. NAICS code for this requirement will be 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing with a small business size of 1000 employees. No solicitation package will be issued.

This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, interested parties who regard themselves as capable of fulfilling these requirements are invited to submit responses to the Government for consideration. Responses received by will be considered by the Government. Inquiry POCs Erik.Fycklund@nist.gov Primary Donald.Graham@nist.gov Secondary National Institutes of Standards and Technologies NIST Acquisition Management Division (AMD) 100 Bureau Dr. Mail Stop 1640 Gaithersburg, MD. 20899-1640