NIGP 84546: Moisture-Density Tester (for Soils): Nuclear Moisture-Density Gauges, etc.

NIGP 84546 Moisture-Density Tester (For Soils): Nuclear Moisture-Density Gauges, Etc., an Item code, encompasses handheld and portable density measurement equipment that state and local governments deploy to validate pavement and soil compaction on construction and infrastructure projects. Rather than nuclear-based instruments, current solicitations reflect demand for non-nuclear alternatives using electrical impedance or similar surface-contact technologies that comply with ASTM and AASHTO standards. The City of Austin's Transportation and Public Works Department issued an IFQ in February 2026 for a non-nuclear handheld asphalt density gauge with GPS, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, and integrated temperature sensing—equipment designed for rapid in-situ density measurement on overlay and pavement projects. Issuing bodies under this code include city transportation and public works departments managing street and bridge operations.

The February 2026 solicitation by the City of Austin (IFQ6200BLJ1023, due February 13, 2026) represents recent activity in Texas. The City of Austin evaluated quotes initially from HUBZone, MBE, and WBE certified vendors before opening the opportunity to all registered suppliers; delivery was required within 14 calendar days to a site in Austin. The solicitation specified compliance with Texas Government Code reciprocal-preference provisions and included mandatory wage-theft training and non-discrimination certifications for awarded vendors. Payment terms were net 30 days from invoice receipt.