Notice of Intent to Sole Source: Sr-90 and Kr-85 Beta Source for BSS2

Announcement Type: Special Notice
Classification Code: 6850

Announcement Number: NB682020-24-02302 (NOI)
Subject: Notice of Intent to Noncompetitively Acquire Kr-85 and Sr-90 Radioactive Sources

Notice of Intent to Noncompetitively Acquire One (1) Kr-85 and One (1) Sr-90 Radioactive Sources

The NIST facility for carrying out protection-level beta dosimetry calibrations has been operational for several decades with a major upgrade of instrumentation and sources in 1998 (BSS2 system). This is the date when the radioactive sources (Sr-90 and Kr-85) currently used for calibrations were obtained. The decay of these sources over a 25-year period negatively influences the measurement process and the measurement results in the form of longer integration times and increased measurement uncertainties.

This notice is not a request for a quotation. A solicitation document will not be issued and quotations will not be requested.

This acquisition is being conducted under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b) via FAR 13.106-1(b). The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 325180, Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing.

The purpose of this solicitation is to obtain One (1) Kr-85 and One (1) Sr-90 Radioactive Sources for the BSS2 protection-level beta calibration facility to improve efficiency and uncertainties of calibration measurements.

The currently utilized Sr-90 and Kr-85 radioactive sources were acquired in 1998, necessitating its replacement to ensure the continuity of NIST's measurement process and measurement results. After thorough evaluation, it has been determined that an identical replacement from the original manufacturer, Eckert & Ziegler Analytics, is essential for several reasons:

1. Compatibility and Continuity: The Kr-85 and Sr-90 Beta Sources from Eckert & Ziegler Analytics are uniquely engineered to integrate seamlessly with the BSS2 equipment a calibration system also produced by Eckert & Ziegler. It is essential to clarify that these beta sources are the only sources fitting NIST's specific requirements for the Eckert & Ziegler BSS2 system. This exclusivity ensures that the system operates correctly, safely, and within regulatory guidelines, minimizing operational risks and safeguarding the continuity of our critical operations.

2. Technical Specifications: The Eckert & Ziegler Analytics-produced KARB4810 Kr-85 and SIRB4568 Sr-90 beta sources provide a nominal source activity of 3.7 GBq, with an activity tolerance of 30%, precisely meeting our operation's need for efficiency and compatibility with the BSS2 equipment. Their beta dose rate is calibrated by PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt), which is a critical factor for ensuring reliable and accurate measurement standards. Without these specific beta sources, acquiring the PTB certification, which represents adherence to the highest international standards, would be impossible. Similarly, the EZN certificate, which verifies leakage tests, is crucial for ensuring the safe use of radioactive materials and compliance with safety regulations. The specificity of these documents to Eckert & Ziegler's beta sources underscores the infeasibility of using alternative products.

The Kr-85 and Sr-90 Beta Sources' custom engineering for integration into the BSS2 system is vital for maintaining operational integrity. The products are specifically designed to fit into a stainless-steel holder in the BSS2 equipment, ensuring not just physical compatibility but also recognition by the system's controls. This precise engineering, including the provision of detailed engineering drawings (e.g., VZ-2832-002) and beam flattening filters, illustrates the tailored design to meet our operational demands uniquely. compliance.
NIST conducted market research from September 2023 to May 2024 by internet searches, discussions with sources, attending conferences, and sources sought posting. Sources sought NB682020-24-02302 was posted from July 3, 2024 to July 17, 2024 with no responses. The results of that market research revealed that only Eckert & Ziegler Analytics, 1380 SEABOARD INDUSTRIAL BLVD NW, ATLANTA, GA 30318; UEI: KGT2BNLT8SV5 appears to be capable of meeting NIST's requirements.

However, any sources that believe they are capable of meeting NIST's minimum requirements are encouraged to respond to this notice by the response date to provide the following information at a minimum: Company Unique Entity Identifier number in https://sam.gov; details about what your company is capable of providing that meets or exceeds NIST's minimum requirements; whether your company is an authorized reseller of the product or service being cited and evidence of such authorization; and any other information that can help NIST determine whether this requirement may be competitively satisfied.