Opportunity

SAM #1333ND26QNB640309

NIST Solicitation for Flow Imaging Microscopy Instrument with Light Obscuration Capabilities

Buyer

DEPT OF COMMERCE NIST

Posted

August 05, 2026

Respond By

August 14, 2026

Identifier

1333ND26QNB640309

NAICS

334516, 334510

NIST's Material Measurement Laboratory, Biomolecular Measurement Division, is seeking to acquire a commercial flow imaging microscopy instrument with integrated light obscuration capabilities for advanced particle size measurement in liquid suspensions. - Government Buyer: - National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) - Material Measurement Laboratory, Biomolecular Measurement Division - Products and Services Requested: - One (1) flow imaging microscopy instrument with light obscuration capabilities - Must detect particles from 2 to 70 micrometers - Includes data acquisition and analysis software, consumables, and computer system - One (1) operations and maintenance manual (hard copy or PDF) - Installation at NIST Gaithersburg, MD (includes uncrating, setup, demonstration, and trash removal) - Training for up to three personnel (operation, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance) - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Instrument must be commercial (no prototypes or refurbished equipment) - Must meet current industry and regulatory standards for particle characterization in biomanufacturing - All shipping and tariff costs must be included - Warranty coverage for one year upon acceptance - Delivery of instrument within 90 days of award; installation, manual, and training within 120 days - No specific OEMs or part numbers are mentioned - Evaluation based on technical capability and price

Description

The Bioprocess Measurements Group at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) located at Gaithersburg, MD provides measurement science and standards for robust characterization of biologically or synthetically derived particles that are relevant in the biomanufacturing industry.  These particle types can be hard to distinguish, and regulatory guidelines require detailed characterization of these particles in drug products. Industry currently relies heavily on flow imaging microscopy and light obscuration (compendial method) for characterizing these particles in their products.  We are requesting an updated flow imaging instrument with light obscuration capabilities to replace two outdated, unsupported systems (Flow imaging and Light Obscuration) which no longer reflect instruments used in industry which limits data comparability and collaboration. 

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