Software for a NanoTest Xtreme instrument

FBO ANNOUNCEMENT: PRESOLICITATION NOTICE, NOTICE OF INTENT

ACTION CODE: SPECIAL NOTICE

SUBJECT: Sole source – Software for a NanoTest Xtreme instrument

SOLICITATION NUMBER: NB643090-26-00863

RESPONSE DATE: 8/29/26

DESCRIPTION:

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Nanomechanical Properties Group (Materials Measurement Science Division) develops and provides measurements science, measurement standards, and measurement technology that addresses measurement needs by US semiconductor industry. This work involves measurements of mechanical properties (e.g., elastic modulus, yield strength) and characterization of deformation behavior (e.g., fracture and fatigue) for materials in advanced packaging applications. Indentation and scratch testing are widely used techniques for such measurements. The extraction of mechanical properties from mechanical testing relies on sophisticated analytical and numerical methods provided either by in-house developed or proprietary software, such as provided by RGS Scientific. The Nanomechanical Properties Group maintains several commercial instruments for mechanical measurements, including the NanoTest Xtreme Testing Platform. The NanoTest Xtreme Testing platform provides advanced multi-mechanical testing capabilities under vacuum conditions and/or elevated temperatures.

As stated by the manufacturer of the NanoTest Xtreme instrument, the Siomec software is the only software application capable to interface with the instrument and to provide integrated analysis and simulation tools. Micro Materials is the manufacturer of the NanoTest Xtreme Testing platform. The company is based in the UK. RGS Scientific is the only authorized distributor of Micro Material’s products including related analytical/simulation software within the United States.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) intends to negotiate on a sole source basis, under the authority of FAR Part 12.102(b) with RGS Scientific located...