Rock Thin Section Preparation Services

The contract seeks the preparation of approximately 440 standard and microprobe polished thin sections from rock samples, encompassing all necessary steps including slabbing, cutting, and trimming to produce consistently 30-micrometer-thick sections adhered to glass slides. Optional services include calcium or potassium staining and an additional 0.5-micrometer diamond polish for enhanced analytical precision. The work is intended for scientific and geological analysis, requiring precise craftsmanship and adherence to standardized thin section protocols. The contract is classified as a subcontract under a Total Small Business Set-Aside, meaning only small businesses are eligible to bid, as defined by the Small Business Administration. It falls under the NAICS code 541380 for geological and geophysical consulting services and is issued by the Department of the Interior’s Office of Acquisition Grants. All bids must be submitted by August 4, 2026, with the solicitation posted on July 23, 2026, and no specific point of contact or location for performance is provided in the available data.