9280-26-R-RFIN-00029

The University of Southern Mississippi is procuring software for a TPS Anisotropy Upgrade sensor under a sole-source notice (USM SSP 26_027, RFx 3150006844) with objections due June 8, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. Central Time. This is a non-competitive procurement; CTherm Technology is identified as the sole qualified vendor.

The scope is software to control a TPS (Transient Plane Source) anisotropy sensor addition to an existing CTherm Thermal Conductivity instrument. The sensor measures thermal conductivity of thin films and coatings within layered systems and operates to ASTM D7984 standards with a thermal conductivity range of 0.01 to 500 W/mK and operational temperatures from −50°C to 200°C. The software provides plug-and-play calibrations for liquids, powders, pastes, polymers, and composites.

The contract value is $14,400 with an academic discount applied. The University evaluated competing thermal conductivity measurement systems—TA Instruments FOX 50 Heat Flow Meter (0.1 to 10 W/mK range), Hukseflux, and KEM Kyoto Electronics QTM-710/700 (0.03 to 12 W/mK, 5°C to 35°C)—and determined that none meet the required measurement range, temperature capability, or ASTM D7984 conformity with guard ring specification. CTherm's MTPS technology is the only option offering full compliance.

Interested parties may object to the sole-source justification in writing to Jacob Cochran, Director of Procurement & Contracts, at Jacob.Cochran@usm.edu with subject line "Sole Source Objection 26_XXX." Should objections with supporting documentation succeed, the University will either convert to competitive bidding or appeal to the Public Procurement Review Board if the sole-source claim is upheld.