Dynamic Light Scattering System (Microplastics and Nanoparticles)

The FDA's Human Foods Program, Office of Chemistry and Toxicology, Division of Analytical Chemistry, is preparing to procure one Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) instrument system with responses due by July 31, 2026 at noon ET. No set-aside is anticipated.

The instrument will measure particle size, particle size distribution, zeta potential, electrophoretic mobility, concentration, refractive index, sedimentation, transmittance, molecular weight, and microrheology of dispersed particles and molecules to characterize nano-sized particles (approximately 1–1000 nm) in color and food additives and support detection and characterization of microplastics and nanoplastics in food matrices.

Delivery and installation must occur within 60 days of award at the FDA facility in College Park, Maryland (5001 Campus Drive), with on-site training within 30 days after installation. Minimum technical specifications include a solid-state laser source up to 50 mW at 671 nm, 173-degree back-scatter detection angle capability, phase analysis light scattering (PALS) for zeta-potential analysis, temperature control from −15°C to 120°C (0.1°C), particle size range of 0.3 nm to 15 mm, zeta-potential range exceeding 500 mV, and molecular-mass range of 342 Da to 20 MDa. The procurement includes one automated titration accessory compatible with the analyzer, one-day on-site installation and familiarization training for up to four operators, and a standard three-year warranty.

Responses must include a completed Vendor Response Form in native Microsoft Excel format and a capability statement not exceeding five pages in PDF format, submitted to David.Seid@FDA.HHS.Gov. This sources sought notice informs acquisition strategy and set-aside decisions and assesses domestic product availability under the Buy American statute. NAICS 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing), PSC 6630.