66 -- Malvern, model STP5311, Spraytec Standard Laboratory System

The Government intends to purchase a Real-Time Aerosol Spray Sizing Analyzer capable of covering a particle size range of 0.1 to 900 micrometers on a sole source basis. Purchase will be made from Malvern Instruments in accordance with the requirements of FAR 13.106, for the acquisition of supplies or services determined to be reasonably available from only one source. The items to be purchased are 1 ea STP5311, Sptaytec Standard Lab System with 300mm measurement zone and 300mm lens and STP2520 Wet Sample Accessory. No other sources have been identified which offer a benchtop apparatus capable of real-time aerosol spray particle size determination, such that a spray can be discharged directly into the apparatus from widely varied working distances to immediately characterize the particle size distribution, and be able to analyze the particle variation over time, with purged optics to prevent buildup of the spray contents on the optical system that collects the measurements. The system allows working distances of over 1 meter for 100 micron particles and 150mm for 0.5micron particles. This system includes an adapter to measure particle size suspended solids in liquid samples with an in-line pump and stirrer and requiring only 50-170ml samples. It can measure particle size distribution at 2500 measurements per second allowing the changes in droplet size during spray actuation to be followed in real-time, to assess dynamics. Measurement of the output of the aerosol can also be made over relatively long distances, allowing the wide spray plumes to be accurately sampled and measured. All of these capabilities would enable the staff to reproduce realistic scenarios for different product types and determine realistic exposure models for consumers in anticipated uses of the product. These requirements are critical to teh staff need for the instrument, as inhalation risks for aerosol products are dependent. amoung other things, on the particle size distribution of the aerosol plume at varied time and distance from spraying. If completely qualified sources for this system exist, they must submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort in writing to the identified point of contact no later than 3:00 p.m. eastern time by the response date listed above. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed effort on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice.