The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Office of Acquisition and Agreements Management (OAAM), on behalf of the Microscopy and Microanalysis Research Group (MMRG) within the Material Measurement Laboratory (MML), intends to enter into a sole source purchase order with Coherent Laser Group of Santa Clara, CA under the authority of 41 US 253(c)(1) - only one responsible source, for an upgrade to an existing Coherent MIRA 900 D laser system including installation, training, and a one year warranty.

The MMRG conducts research on the development of innovative metrologies and measurement protocols for micro/nano-scale heterosystems analysis. Measurement techniques are used to determine sample composition as well as structural, electronic, and chemical properties of a wide variety of organic, inorganic and biomolecular systems where materials of interest are typically present as either micro/nano-scale features or monolayer/multilayer films. The MMRG is striving to make improvements in the technology of measurement tools and techniques for the microanalysis of materials systems (i.e. imaging and analysis of inorganic/organic nanostructure and morphology). A fundamental tool utilized to fulfill MMRG's mission is the aforementioned MIRA 900 D laser system.

Basis for Sole Source:
In order to further fulfill MMRG's mission, it is necessary procure an upgrade to its existing laser system with parts that are 100% compatible and interchangeable with the system. Specifically, a PulseSwitch Cavity Dumper (dual) and a Second Harmonic Generation (dual), which are both manufactured by Coherent Laser Group. This upgrade will enable repetition rates down from the system's current 76 MHz to a variable repetition rate of 1 Hz to 54 MHz. The purchase of this laser system upgrade is necessary to permit the imaging and analysis of chemically complex samples such as organic/inorganic nano-composites, biofilms, compacted powders, and fibers. Coherent has developed the required technology, has proprietary rights to the technology, and has no authorized distributors or resellers capable of providing the technology.

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing. The Small Business Size standard is 500 employees.

No solicitation package will be issued. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, responses received by 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time on January 13, 2014 will be considered by the Government.

A determination by the Government not to compete the proposed acquisition based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.

Bid Protests Not Available