Pore size and surface area analyzer

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial goods and commercial services prepared in accordance with the format in FAR subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; quotes are being requested, and a written solicitation will not be issued. The solicitation number is 12405B25Q0032 and is issued as a request for quotation (RFQ).  The RFQ is being issued as a total small business set aside under NAICS code is 334516 with a small business set aside standard of 1,000 employees. This solicitation document incorporates those provisions and clauses in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular 2025-01.

The USDA intends to purchase a surface area and pore size analyzer.  This equipment will replace current, but antiquated surface area and pore size analyzer at Center. Current equipment is nearing end-of-life with replacement parts no longer in production, and difficult to source. Current equipment is used to analyze surface areas of natural (e.g., soils) and manufactured (e.g., biochar and hydrochar) materials for the Center, as well as other ARS units across the United States. This equipment also supports agreements with other collaborators, such as the US EPA.

The technical Requirements/Tasks: 

Minimum Requirements

1. Graphical touchscreen for full instrument control.
2. Capabilities to perform both surface area and pore size determinations in one analyzer.
3. Comes complete with inert gas (N2, He, Ar, Kr) regulator.
4. Comes complete with surface area reference material.
5. Type B glassware compatible.
6. Supplied with controller/data management module.
7. Minimum of four (4) analysis and degas stations.
8. Fitted with dewar and long cells for expanded analysis temperature ranges and micropore characterization.
9. Ships fully assembled.

This equipment must be delivered to USDA-ARS, Coastal Plains Soil, Water & Plant Research Center, 2611 West Lucas Street, Florence, SC 29501.

DOCUMENTS TO BE INCLUDED IN QUOTE: In order to be considered for award Offerors shall provide 1) a Quote on company letterhead detailing the item description, unit price per item, discounts for trade-ins, total price and valid for at least 60 days after receipt of quote; and 2) FAR 52.212-3, OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATION-COMMERCIAL ITEMS; The Representation and Certification section must be completed electronically in the System for Award Management (SAM) website at www.sam.gov. Please include the solicitation number, 12405B25Q0032, in all email communications, or your quote may not be considered. QUOTED PRICE MUST INCLUDE: any delivery costs as well as any applicable duties, brokerage, or customs fees. Also please note this requirement is subject to availability of funds.

REJECTION OF QUOTATION: Failure to demonstrate compliance will be cause to reject the quote without further discussions. All responsible sources may submit an offer and will be considered.

PAYMENT: Any award made under this solicitation is subject to 31 CFR Part 208 which requires all payments made by the government to be made by electronic funds transfer.

Contractors intending to conduct business with the Federal Government MUST register with the System for Award Management (SAM) database prior to submitting quotation. You may register online at www.sam.gov. Any amendment and documents related to this procurement will be available electronically at the Internet site: http://www.sam.gov.

The government anticipates award of a firm fixed priced contract resulting from this solicitation to the responsible offeror whose offer conforms to the specifications that will be the most advantageous to the government in accordance with FAR 13.106-2. All questions regarding this solicitation should be emailed to the Contract Specialist no later than 5:00PM EST on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. Responses shall include technical specifications, descriptive material, and capabilities of the offeror’s equipment. Offerors shall identify where the offered item meets or does not meet each of the Government's functional and performance minimum specifications listed herein. Quotations are to be addressed to Kelly Bero, Contract Specialist, at Kelly.Bero@usda.gov.