INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE: Acquisition of One (1) Thermogravimetric Analyzer (TGA) with Additional Specifications

The Army Research Laboratory at Adelphi, Maryland, is seeking to sole-source the acquisition of one thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) manufactured by TA Instruments – Waters LLC, specifically the Discovery TGA 5500 model with associated components including the Thermal/Rheology/MC Computer US App, Monitor Flat Panel, and Loyalty Support Plan, along with required installation and basic operator training. This procurement is issued as a Request for Quote under FAR Part 12.102 as a firm fixed price contract, with a response deadline of June 12, 2026, and delivery required no later than three months after contract award to the ARL Biolab at 2800 Powder Mill Road. The contract includes mandatory compliance with unique item identification standards per MIL-STD-130 and MIL-STD-129, requiring machine-readable markings and reporting of UID data elements through the Material Inspection and Receiving Report. Offerors must maintain active SAM registration, provide CAGE and UEI identifiers along with tax ID, and adhere to strict payment terms of_NET 30_, with billing handled exclusively via Wide Area Workflow and bankcard. The system incorporates federal acquisition clauses prohibiting contracts with entities requiring overly restrictive confidentiality agreements, mandating compliance with defense telecommunications restrictions, and enforcing restrictions on debarred or excluded contractors. All proposals must include full quantities, disclose country of manufacture and shipping fees, confirm credit card payment capability without additional charges, and explicitly state any exceptions in a cover letter. Foreign nationals performing under the contract must have documented employment eligibility under 8 CFR 274a.12 and be approved by local Foreign Disclosure Officers. The Army Research Laboratory is exempt from Maryland sales tax, and payment will be made solely upon final government inspection and acceptance at the facility. Technical and primary points of contact are designated for correspondence, and proposals must be submitted electronically to the primary point of contact listed in SAM. Evaluation will be based on overall advantage to the government, with minimum technical requirements serving as a mandatory pass/fail gate, and award potentially going to a higher-priced offeror if their proposal substantially exceeds minimum specifications.