PTI Coatings

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration Shared Services Center has issued a Special Notice for a sole source procurement of specialized ceramic coatings from Plasma Technology Incorporated (PTI). This procurement involves PTI's proprietary PTI 5 (CrC-NiCr) and PTI 214 (Alumina) coatings, which will be applied to test specimens and components at NASA Langley Research Center. The agency has determined that PTI is the sole provider of these specific coatings under FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i). The procurement falls under NAICS code 332812 for Metal Coating and Engraving Services and will utilize commercial item acquisition procedures. NASA has justified this sole source approach based on PTI's unique capabilities and the coatings' previously demonstrated superior performance in NASA testing programs.

The purpose of this procurement is to obtain specialized ceramic coating services supporting advanced materials testing and evaluation at NASA Langley Research Center. The work scope includes coating one drum section and 240 test specimen rounds made of Al6061 and Ti-6Al-4V substrates, along with precision grinding services to meet exact specifications. Interested organizations may submit capability statements and qualifications in writing to the contracting officer by 7:00 a.m. Central Standard Time on July 31, 2025, though oral communications are not acceptable. While organizations can submit capabilities statements, NASA retains sole discretion on whether to pursue full and open competition. The estimated performance period begins September 1, 2025, with deliverables to be completed within 15-20 working days after substrate receipt. The procurement aims to maintain research continuity and data validity by using the same coatings that have been previously evaluated and purchased by NASA.