66--ZERO ANGLE PHOTON SPECTROMETER (ZAPS)

The U.S. EPA, ORD, National Risk Management Research Lab., Water Supply Water Resources Div., Cincinnati, OH, intends to negotiate on a sole source basis with ZAPS Technologies, under the authority of FAR 6.302-1. This requirement is for the procurement of a Zero Angle Photon Spectrometer. The U.S. EPA is perusing technology to evaluate anomalies in drinking water quality in distribution systems. For the past ten years fiber optic instrument zero angle photon spectrometer (ZAPS) technology has been developed for the Office of U.S. Naval Research in order to measure the concentrations of trace substances in the ocean waters. ZAPS spectrometers were the original "smart" sensors. Unlike most other field instruments the operating parameters are digitally controlled. Microprocessors built into the instrument make it possible to analyze data in remotely and in real-time and use the results to initiate emergency response action. This information could be used to screen raw water, treated water, or to provide feedback to utility operators for more efficient plant operation. The acquisition of the Zero Angle Photon Spectrometer will satisfy agency requirements for research capabilities, experience, engineering, developmental, and expert services that are required to maintain the intellectual property and integrity that is specific to this research. The EPA will be jointly preparing a patent application with the identified source under the FTTA for the invention and application of the technology to evaluate anomalies in drinking water quality in distribution systems using a zero angle photon spectrometer technology. There is no other U.S. based source that has this unique combination of technical experience, intellectual property, and laboratory and field experience that can provide this expert assistance. This notice is not a request for quotations. However, any firm believing itself capable of meeting EPA requirements may submit requisite technical documentation to establish the potential of meeting the specifications. Such documentation must be submitted to the POC within 15 days of electronic posting of this notice. A determination not to compete the proposed requirement based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement or to proceed on a sole source basis. This acquisition is being processed under FAR Part 12, Commercial Items.