Pilot trials testing Laser-induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Probes

The Department of Natural Resources Canada is seeking proposals to conduct pilot-scale testing of refractory probes designed for Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy in a controlled electric arc furnace environment, with the goal of evaluating their performance, durability, and responsiveness under conditions that simulate actual steelmaking operations. The testing will be carried out using a custom-built pilot arc furnace capable of replicating the high-temperature, chemically aggressive environment of industrial steel production, ensuring that the probes are assessed under realistic and demanding operational parameters. Success in this trial will determine the viability of integrating LIBS probe technology into continuous steelmaking processes for real-time elemental analysis. Interested vendors must submit responses by the deadline of August 11, 2026, through the official Canada Buys portal, with all inquiries directed to Anik Samson, the Contracting Authority at anik.samson@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca. This solicitation, identified as NRCan-5000096476, was posted on July 27, 2026, and is open to all qualified suppliers without restriction based on set-aside categories. The work will be performed in Canada, and the results will directly inform the federal government’s strategic initiatives to modernize and optimize domestic steelmaking operations through advanced process monitoring technologies.