Radiocarbon (¹⁴C) Analysis of CH₄

The contract seeks to perform radiocarbon (¹⁴C) analysis on methane (CH₄) to distinguish between fossil and modern sources by measuring the presence or absence of ¹⁴C, as fossil methane is entirely depleted in this isotope while modern methane contains measurable levels. The work involves isolating methane from samples and using accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) to achieve high-precision quantification of ¹⁴C content, enabling accurate source apportionment critical for climate research and emissions tracking. This effort supports environmental monitoring and policy development by providing scientifically robust data on methane origin. The subcontract is issued under NAICS code 541380, indicating it pertains to other scientific and technical consulting services, and is managed by the Department of Commerce through NOAA. The performance location is in Boulder, with a response deadline set for May 12, 2026, at 4:00 PM. The solicitation was posted on May 6, 2026, and no specific set-aside provisions or point of contact information are provided. Despite limited administrative details, the technical focus remains on delivering precise ¹⁴C measurements to resolve methane source contributions with high analytical rigor.