NIGP 88515: Algae and Microbe Control Chemicals (Copper Sulfate, etc.)

NIGP 88515 Algae and Microbe Control Chemicals (Copper Sulfate, Etc.), an Item code, covers the supply of water treatment reagents — copper sulfate in crystal and liquid forms, and related algaecide and biocide compounds — that state and local water utilities procure for drinking water treatment plants, water reclamation facilities, and swimming pool maintenance. Recent solicitations show water departments purchasing copper sulfate alongside a broader suite of treatment chemicals including aluminum sulfate, sodium hypochlorite, chlorine, lime slurry, and specialty compounds used for coagulation, disinfection, and pH adjustment. Issuing bodies include municipal water departments and county water authorities in small to mid-sized jurisdictions; these buyers typically establish term contracts with line-item awards, allowing suppliers to bid on individual chemicals where qualified. Solicitations emphasize NSF 60 approval for drinking water chemicals, AWWA and ANSI standards compliance, 72-hour delivery capability, and bulk delivery logistics including tanker and pallet-jack specifications. Pricing is generally F.O.B. destination with no fuel adjustment clauses permitted.

Recent activity concentrates in Georgia and Florida. The City of Cartersville Water Department issued an IFB due October 30, 2026, for aluminum sulfate, liquid lime slurry, chlorine, hydrofluosilicic acid, sodium hypochlorite, and sodium bisulfite across two treatment facilities with annual delivery volumes ranging from 3 to 75 loads per chemical and a contract term through October 31, 2027. The City of Tampa solicited copper sulfate pentahydrate on an as-needed basis for the David L. Tippin Water Treatment Facility, with a Small Local Business Enterprise set-aside determination letter attached (proposal due September 9, 2026). The City of Griffin, Georgia issued an ITB for sixteen treatment chemicals on a line-item basis for FY 2027 with optional four-year renewal (due May 28, 2026), delivery to six facilities, and pricing evaluation including prior supplier performance. Pasco County, Florida solicited large copper sulfate crystals and liquid copper sulfate on an indefinite-quantity basis (due June 26, 2026). The City of Tucson's RFP for swimming pool supplies and chemicals (due June 13, 2024, a superseded date) illustrates diversification of this code beyond drinking water into municipal recreation facilities. Contracts typically run one to three years with firm pricing and renewal options.