Notice of Intent to Sole Source- Synopsis for Mechanical Testing of Composite Coupons, Subcomponent, and Constituent Materials at the National Institute of Aviation Research at Wichita State University

NASA/GRC has a requirement for continuous mechanical testing of composite coupons, subcomponent, and constituent materials. Material tests are a critical aspect of NASA's continuing research in composite structures. The mechanical test data is used for material selection, structural design, and failure analysis. Testing is required throughout a five year period. NASA/GRC intends to purchase the service from the National Institute of Aviation Research (NIAR) at Wichita State University. Tests requirements may include non-standard test methods where coordination between NASA and the test facility is critical. The NIAR test facility is the only facility capable of meeting the diverse scope of mechanical tests, analysis and inspection required throughout NASA projects otherwise not available to the Government. The statutory authority for other than full and open competition is 10 USC 2304 (c) (1), only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. There is a lack of competition in the area of testing in which NIAR is capable of performing. In addition, NIAR maintains a database of existing material properties, based on NIAR generated data, which allows preliminary verification of material performance through equivalency tests. Finally, programs require a continuation of test data for comparative purposes, in which case it is critical the organization responsible for testing remain constant. A change in test facility would impact project milestones and require costly repetition of coupon data generation. The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort in writing via email to the identified point of contact not later than 4:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday, December 15, 2019. 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. All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the agency. NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at http://prod.nais.nasa.gov/pub/pub_library/Omb.html