Sample analysis for U-Th-Pb age and Lu-Hf analysis for detrital samples

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is conducting market research to identify qualified sources with the capabilities to perform specialized laboratory services in support of the Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics (GMEG) Science Centers analytical needs. The Center has detrital zircon provenance samples and fine-grained volcanic tephra that require U-Th-Pb age analysis and Lu-Hf analysis for detrital samples. The required work includes mineral separation, backscattered electron (BSE) and cathodoluminescence (CL) imaging, and analysis of zircon ages and isotopic ratios. The Government is seeking capable sources with the specialized facilities, instrumentation, and expertise to perform these analyses, including high-throughput, high-N analysis that allows for Lu-Hf isotope measurements to be conducted simultaneously in split-stream mode by connecting to the Neoma and Elemt2 or the Neptune and iCAP analytical equipment. Vendors must also have developed methods for extracting zircons from fine-grained samples down to 10 microns an incredibly small crystal size likely required for age analysis of sampled volcanic tephra.

This sources sought announcement is not a request for quote or proposal and the Government is not committed to award of a purchase order or contract pursuant to this announcement. The information resulting from this market research is simply for planning purposes to assist the Government in determining its acquisition strategy. The Government will not pay for any costs incurred in the preparation of information for responding to this notice.

NAICS 541380: Testing Laboratories $19.5M

Submission Instructions:
Interested parties should submit the following information via email:
1. Company name, address, and DUNS/UEI number
2. Point of contact name, phone number, and email address
3. Detailed description of relevant experience and capabilities in detrital zircon U-Th-Pb age analysis, Lu-Hf analysis, mineral separation, BSE and CL imaging, isotopic ratio measurements,
and the advanced technical capabilities listed above.
4. Examples of similar projects completed, including equipment, techniques, and data quality controls used
5. Estimated turnaround time for analysis

Please no phone calls. Responses to this announcement shall only be accepted through electronic mail addressed to vnuno@usgs.gov and must be uploaded and received in their entirety no later than 08/18/2025 at 1200 Eastern Time. Responses submitted by hardcopy or the SAM web portal shall not be accepted or considered.