Cosmogenic radionuclide sample process

The U.S. Geological Survey Denver Acquisition Branch is seeking commercial services to process and analyze sediment samples for cosmogenic radionuclide (10Be) concentrations. The selected contractor must perform comprehensive sample processing including mineral separation, chemical preparation, target preparation, and accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) analysis all within a single laboratory to ensure data consistency. This firm fixed-price contract requires demonstrated capability to handle all processing steps in one facility, with evaluation based on technical capabilities and past performance weighted more heavily than price. Key evaluation factors include the contractor's ability to perform all sample processing steps in one laboratory, relevant references, and a detailed pricing schedule. The solicitation originally had a deadline of September 10, 2025, but has been extended to September 17, 2025 at 12:00 PM Mountain Time, with quotations to be submitted electronically to jrollin@usgs.gov.

This procurement was initially designated as a total small business set-aside but has been amended to full and open competition, removing the small business restrictions. The contract structure includes a base year running from September 11, 2025 to September 10, 2026, followed by two option years and an optional six-month extension, creating a total potential performance period of 3.5 years. The pricing schedule indicates processing of approximately 21 estimated samples per process across the base year and option years, with specific processes including crushing and grinding, quartz separation and purification, chemical preparation (BeO), and AMS measurement for 10Be. The six-month extension option is capped at no more than half of Year 2 pricing. While specific contract values are not disclosed in the summary documents, the multi-year structure and specialized laboratory requirements suggest significant technical and financial commitments from potential contractors.