Request for Information (RFI): Deep Ultraviolet (DUV) Raman Systems

Background
The DEVCOM CBC requires a capable and qualified company to provide labor support, supervisory support, materials, tools, and equipment to develop state-of-the-art semi-autonomous standoff DUV Raman Systems. The first two (2) systems should be capable of operating at 262 nm. The additional two (2) systems should be capable of operating below 250nm. The U.S. Army currently has a challenge to detect large and small quantities of chemicals (solids and liquids) at standoff distances greater than two (2) meters on ground and surfaces to enhance avoidance and situational awareness of a chemically hazard environment.

Grant Details
The required Technology Objectives of the state-of-the-art autonomous standoff Deep Ultraviolet (DUV) Raman systems are: 1. Operating at 262 nm or below, providing on-board processing of acquired data to yield a readable detection of threat material to the operator without the need of ancillary software or hardware, operable in both direct sunlight and nighttime lighting conditions, providing standoff range objectives that are no less than one (1) meter, and weighing no more than ten (10) pounds. The Contractor should have the appropriate level of expertise in DUV laser development and system development in order to build and deliver DUV Raman systems meeting the objectives outlined above. Additionally, the Contractor should possess a facility clearance enabling the handling classified material up to the SECRET level, as well as appropriate facility clearances to handle lab quantity amounts (less than 10 grams) of energetic materials, and general classes of standard chemicals and toxic industrial chemicals and materials.

Eligibility Requirements
The DEVCOM CBC invites participation from all qualified contractors who are engaged in related research activities. This RFI is to facilitate the Grants or Agreements Officer’s review of the market base for acquisition planning, size determination, and procurement strategy purposes.

Grant Value
The total value of the grant and potential value of individual grant awards is not explicitly mentioned.

Place of Performance
The primary place of performance will be the Contractor’s facilities.