Fluorescent Phosphate Optical Glass Units

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a civilian agency under the Department of Commerce, has issued a Special Notice announcing its intention to procure fluorescent phosphate optical glass units on a sole source basis from Starna Cells, Inc., located in Atascadero, California. This procurement falls under NAICS code 327212 (Other Pressed & Blown Glass & Glassware Manufacturing) and is classified under procurement code 66 (Instruments and Laboratory Equipment). The notice was posted on March 2, 2026, and represents NIST's commitment to acquiring specialized optical glass components for national measurement standards. The procurement is being conducted without a formal solicitation package, though interested parties may submit responses for consideration.

NIST's Biosystems and Biomaterials Division requires copper-containing phosphate-based glass units with specific optical properties to develop NIST Standard Reference Material SRM 2943a, which will serve as a Relative Intensity Standard for Fluorescence Spectroscopy and establish national measurement traceability for fluorescence emission intensity spectra. The sole source justification is based on Starna Cells' unique capability as the only identified U.S. small business provider capable of manufacturing high-purity, optical-quality phosphate glass with copper additives, a specialized process distinct from standard glassware production. The deadline for interested contractors to submit responses is March 11, 2026, and the resulting procurement will be structured as a Firm-Fixed Price purchase order. While NIST has historically procured similar glass production and finishing services from Starna Cells for over 40 years, the notice remains open to any contractor who believes they can fulfill the specialized requirements outlined in the procurement.