Low Temperature Scanning Tunneling Microscope Amendment 1

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), managed by UT-Battelle, LLC for the Department of Energy, is procuring a sophisticated Low Temperature Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM) to support research in condensed matter physics and quantum information science. The procurement is a firm-fixed-price contract under NAICS code 334516 for Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing. The STM must meet stringent technical specifications, including a base temperature of 1.7K or less, a uniaxial magnetic field of at least 5T, and compatibility with specific sample holders and scientific controllers. Evaluation criteria will prioritize technical capabilities and understanding of specifications, with secondary emphasis on prior performance and delivery schedule. The proposal submission deadline is January 22, 2025, at 12pm EST, with proposals required to include both technical and cost volumes, limited to 10 pages excluding resumes.

The contract has no specific small business set-aside and will be awarded on a competitive basis with one intended recipient. The microscope will be located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, with a performance period anticipated between 12-18 months after award. Vendors must demonstrate expertise through at least three peer-reviewed literature examples of scanning tunneling microscopy and provide a client reference. The instrument requires specific capabilities including a scan range of 1.2x1.2x0.2 microns, qPlus AFM functionality, and atomic spatial resolution with z-height noise under 1 pm. The procurement includes requirements for a one-year warranty, onsite operational training, and adherence to specific technical parameters such as liquid helium/nitrogen hold time exceeding 100 hours and NRTL certification. Payment terms are established as Net 30 days upon final acceptance of the instrument.