Statement of Need.pdf

STATEMENT OF NEED

PURPOSE: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Centers for Coastal

Ocean Science (NCCOS) requires a fully-automated sputter coater that applies a thin conductive metal film onto a sample surface. Applying this coating to a non-conductive sample is an effective preparation technique for eliminating charge-up artifacts for analysis in a scanning electron microscope.

BACKGROUND: High resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM) requires samples coated with non-conductive metals such as gold/palladium for elimination of artifacts. A tilting rotating stage is required for large or complex samples for even coating of metal onto the sample surface.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS: The proposed sputter coater shall meet the following specifications:

• Shall be capable of applying a thin film conductive metal that is effective in eliminating charging of non-conductive materials in a SEM application.

• Fully automated vacuum.

• Fully tilting rotating stage for coating of complex samples

• Sputter cathode powered with adjustable power supply from 0-100mA.

• Unit shall be controlled by a touch screen which interfaces with a programmable logic controller.

DELIVERY SCHEDULE: The Contractor shall deliver all items within 70 days from date of award.

DELIVERY LOCATION:

NOAA/NOS/NCCOS

Attn. Steve Morton

Hollings Marine Laboratory;

331 Fort Johnson Road;

Charleston, SC 29412

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Unit must be compatible with existing gold/palladium target 2.375-inch diameter x 0.003 inch thick.

POINTS OF CONTACT:

Steve Morton steve.morton@noaa.gov mailto:steve.morton@noaa.gov