Quantum Cascade Laser and Detector

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), intends to award a firm-fixed-price purchase order to Block Engineering LLC on a sole-source basis for a Quantum Cascade Laser and associated detector and thermocooler. The equipment will be used in support of NIOSH research to develop a portable real-time monitor for respirable crystalline silica. The quantum cascade laser and detector will be used with aerosol sampling equipment to measure infrared absorption characteristics associated with respirable crystalline silica. Market research identified Block Engineering LLC as the only source currently known to provide a 12.5 µm wavelength tunable laser meeting the Government's required size, weight, and performance requirements. The size and weight requirements are necessary because the equipment will be incorporated into a portable field instrument. However, all responsible sources that believe they can meet the Government's requirements may submit a quotation or capability information for consideration by the Government by the response date identified in this notice. Responses shall include sufficient technical information to demonstrate the source's ability to provide equipment meeting the requirements of the solicitation.