Attachment_-_J_A_1.pdf
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- Attached to
- USGS Paired Bulk Mineralogy/Clay Analyses
- Solicitation number
- 140GG027Q0021
- Issued by
- Not on record
About this file
This is a Sole-Source Determination document for a federal acquisition under the Simplified Acquisition Threshold for commercial products or services. The USGS Geology, Energy, and Minerals Science Center (Reference: PR # 0044060957) has determined that bulk mineralogy and detailed clay analysis via X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis services are available from only one responsible source, QMineral, located at Gaston Geenslaan 1, Leuven, 3001, Belgium. Competition is precluded based on the Government's inability to obtain required services meeting specifications without resulting in unacceptable duplication of cost or delay.
The services required support the Thermal Indices and AGGER projects, which investigate mineralogical transformations and molecular evolution in organic matter as rock samples transition to progressively higher maturity. The analysis must assess pores in shales through paired bulk mineralogy and detailed clay analysis, with clay types playing an important role in determining total porosity and pore size distribution. QMineral is the only laboratory capable of providing data continuity and valid comparability to historical XRD data, offering detailed clay specifications including clay type, abundances, percent smectite interstratification for illite and chlorite, and Reichwelt value. Prior XRD data from other North American commercial laboratories obtained by USGS on organic-rich source rocks has been deemed unusable and valueless. Market research conducted via internet search, System for Award Management, and industry peer discussion confirmed no other laboratory can offer the required level of analytical detail regarding clay speciation. The contracting officer certifies that facts presented support the availability of only one source.
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| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| Attachment_-_Statement_of_Work__1.pdf |
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Data continuity and valid comparability to historical XRD data are essential for these clay analyses.
QMineral is the only commercially available laboratory which can meet data continuity requirements.
QMineral has historically produced clay mineralogical data for the Thermal Indices and AGGER projects and therefore will provide XRD data by comparable analysis methods and data reduction techniques, to allow for continuity in data and valid comparability to historical data. QMineral offers detailed clay data that includes clay type, abundances, % smectite interstratification (not a range) for illite and chlorite, and Reichweit value. This data on clay types and abundance is required to fully assess the role that clays play in porosity development. Other commercial laboratories with high throughput do not offer the same level of detailed clay data required to support the analytical rigor required under the Thermal Indices and AGGER projects, as evidenced by prior XRD data obtained by USGS on organic-rich source rocks from select North Americal commercial laboratories which is deemed unusable and valueless.
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