CHIPS R&D: Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), under the Department of Commerce, is soliciting quotations for a research-grade Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectrometer system and related equipment to support the CHIPS R&D Metrology program focused on characterizing chip-based biosensors and improving semiconductor manufacturing processes. The procurement encompasses four primary line items: an FT-IR Spectrometer with specified optical configurations (KBr beamsplitter, DLaTGS detector, fast scan option), a liquid-nitrogen cooled InSb detector, a liquid-nitrogen cooled MCT detector, and a wafer ATR accessory for attenuated total reflection analysis. All equipment must be new, shipped in original manufacturer packaging, and delivered F.O.B. Destination within 14 weeks of order receipt with installation completed within one month thereafter. Award will be made to the lowest-priced, technically acceptable offeror whose equipment meets or exceeds all minimum specifications documented in the Statement of Work, with pricing valid for 90 days. Quotations are due by February 23, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time, and pre-quote inquiries must be submitted within five calendar days of the February 13, 2026 solicitation posting date.

This is a 100% small business set-aside under NAICS code 334519 (Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing) with a small business size standard of 500 employees. The solicitation specifies a sole-source, brand-name acquisition of Bruker equipment, justified on the basis of plug-and-play compatibility with existing proprietary Bruker optical components and required automation and programming capabilities in both LabVIEW and Python environments. Payment is structured as 100% upon installation, acceptance, and successful demonstration of performance specifications, with a one-year warranty commencing upon acceptance. The contract includes six contract line items covering the spectrometer system, detectors, accessories, shipping, installation, and other transportation-related charges on a not-to-exceed basis. All work will be performed at NIST's Gaithersburg, Maryland facility, with contractor personnel required to meet NIST security requirements including identification badges and campus access protocol compliance.