A--DEVELOPMENT OF MOLECULARLY IMPRINTED POLYMERS FOR THE DETECTION OF PYRETHROID COMPOUNDS

NAICS Code: 541710 SOURCES SOUGHT ANNOUNCEMENT - THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR QUOTE Description: The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Exposure Research Laboratory/Human Exposure & Atmospheric Sciences Division (HEASD), Exposure & Dose Research Branch (EDRB), Las Vegas, Nevada, is seeking qualified sources to develop molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPS) to detect pyrethroids. Molecular imprinting is a technique to develop compounds that can mimic the function of antibodies. The principle of MIPs is that the initial monomers interacts with the analyte for instance through hydrogen bonding. These monomers are then polymerized in the presence of the non-covalently interacting analytes. After the polymerization, the analyte molecules are washed away leaving 3D cavities which resemble the shapes of the analyte molecules. The final polymeric product then recognizes the analytes based on the interactive forces and the created shape effects. The EDRB requires the investigation of interactive forces on the analytes in regard to imprinted polymers using electrochemical transduction methods instead of the optical methods with labeled samples. This is a sources sought announcement to determine whether or not there are sources with the requisite qualifications to perform the work described above. Interested organizations should provide information addressing the specific technical issues and the capabilities required to undertake this project, including: ~Time estimates for developing and furnishing imprints ~A description of their technology and research plan to prepare various MIPs based on the desired properties Interested organizations should submit two (2) copies of their response, not to exceed 5 pages, addressing the information requested above and summarizing their ability to perform all aspects of the effort described herein. Responses are due by November 15, 2002. The Government does not intend to award a contract on the basis of responses nor otherwise pay for the preparation of any information submitted or the Government's use of such information. Acknowledgment of receipt of responses will not be made, nor will respondents be notified of the Government's evaluation of the information received. No basis for claims against the Government shall arise as a result of a response to this request for information or the Government's use of such information as either part of our evaluation process or in developing specifications for any subsequent requirement. Responses will be held in a confidential manner. Any proprietary information should be so marked. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 541710 with a size standard of 500 employees, applies. All respondents are asked to indicate the type and size of their business organization in their response. Responses may be faxed in to (919) 541-4364. Mailed responses should be directed to: McDonald Morrison, Contracting Officer RTP Procurement Operations Division, MD E105-02, 4930 Old Page Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 Phone: 919-541-4364