LA-ICP-MS zircon analyses/brennan

The U.S. Geological Survey is conducting market research to identify qualified vendors capable of providing LA-ICP-MS (laser ablation inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry) analysis of zircon samples, with responses due by July 31, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time. This is a sources-sought announcement for planning purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to award.

Work involves uranium-lead geochronology and mineral chemistry characterization of approximately 28 sample localities containing approximately 50 zircons per sample. Analysis supports USGS research on Colorado River evolution, Miocene tectonics in California, and fault dynamics, with applications to geologic mapping in southern Nevada, near Twentynine Palms in California, and near Yuma, California. The contractor must process zircon samples using standard mineral separation techniques (water table, magnetic separation, heavy liquid separation), mount individual grains in epoxy pucks following optical selection, and perform LA-ICP-MS analysis at the contractor's facility. Deliverables include individual zircon isotope concentrations, ratios, trace element concentrations, calculated ages calibrated to instrument conditions and standards, underlying data, and methodology descriptions explaining data reduction techniques and uncertainty calculations. The contractor must return mounted epoxy pucks to USGS and transfer digital data to a designated USGS point of contact.

Work must be completed within 12 months of award, requiring approximately 15 days of laboratory time. All analyses must meet the contractor's quality control and quality assurance specifications. No government-furnished property will be provided. NAICS code 541380 (Testing Laboratories and Services, $19.0 million size standard) and PSC B517 (Special Studies/Analysis—Geological) apply. Responses should be directed to elizabeth_adam@ios.doi.gov.