Planning

Multi collector Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometer MC-ICP MS

UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH

This public procurement record has 2 releases in its history.

PlanningUpdate

01 Dec 2025 at 12:06

UK2 - Preliminary Market Engagement Notice
Planning

01 Dec 2025 at 11:55

UK2 - Preliminary Market Engagement Notice
Summary of the contracting process

The University of Portsmouth is initiating a procurement process for a Multi Collector Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometer (MC-ICP MS). This tender falls under the industry category of laboratory, optical, and precision equipment, specifically suited for high precision isotopic analysis of geological samples. Located in Portsmouth, United Kingdom, the University is seeking to acquire this equipment to enhance its geological and materials research capabilities. As of 1st December 2025, the procurement is in the planning stage, with a deadline for engagement responses set for 14th December 2025. The procurement process will involve a thorough market engagement to select a suitable supplier by 5th January 2026, with the contract period anticipated to start on 6th January 2026 and end on 5th February 2029. The budget for this initiative ranges from £450,000 to £500,000 excluding VAT.

This procurement opportunity presents a significant business growth potential for companies specialising in laboratory equipment, particularly those with expertise in precision isotopic analysis and mass spectrometry. Businesses capable of supplying high-performing MC-ICP MS systems that meet detailed specifications, such as dual beam path features and laser ablation methods, are well-suited to compete. Furthermore, there is an opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to participate, as indicated by the procurement's suitability criteria. The contract also welcomes offers for ex-demonstration or refurbished equipment, broadening the scope for various suppliers to engage. Engaging with this tender can provide manufacturers with a platform to showcase innovative solutions and potentially form a long-term partnership with a prominent educational institution.

How relevant is this notice?

Notice Information

Notice Title

Multi collector Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometer MC-ICP MS

Notice Description

The requirement is for a dual beam path MC_ICPMS Thermal Coupled Mass Spectrometer, The instrument will be used for high precision isotopic analysis of Hf, U-Pb, U series, Sr, Pb and Nd in geological samples. The system must support both dry plasma and laser ablation sample introduction methods. The system will be primarily used for geological and materials applications and will be coupled to our existing 193nm and femto-second laser systems. The instrument must feature: * A dual beam path allowing bypass of the collision cell when not required. * Daly detectors for wide dynamic range in mixed isotope systems. * Upgrade pathway for Fast ion counters for single-shot analysis when available. * 36 month manufacturer warranty included. Detailed Specification: 1. General Requirements * The instrument must be a high-precision Multi-Collector Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (MC-ICP-MS) designed for isotopic analysis of geological materials. * Capable of precise and accurate measurement of U-Pb-Th, Hf, K-Ca, and S isotopic systems in mineral and rock samples. * Must support both wet & dry plasma and laser ablation sample introduction methods. * Vacuum pumps must be oil free dry pumps. 2. Performance Specifications * Mass Resolution: Low, medium, and high-resolution modes (>=10,000 resolving power pseudo-high res and >=3000 true high res @ 10% valley). * Sensitivity: >=1000 V/ppm for U and Pb in dry plasma mode; >=600 V/ppm for Nd and Hf in dry plasma mode at 100ul/min uptake rate. * Precision and Accuracy: Internal precision better than 20 ppm (2s) for 143Nd/144Nd and 176Hf/177Hf; External reproducibility better than 50 ppm (2s). * Must support operation with gases such as H2, He, or NH3 (MFCs for each to be included). 3. Collector Configuration * Minimum of 9 Faraday collectors with software-switchable pre-amplifiers (1011/1012 options for each amplifier). * At least 3 ion counters, for high-sensitivity detection of low-abundance isotopes (e.g., 204Pb, 235U). * Detectors must allow simultaneous collection of all relevant isotopes of U-Pb-Th, Hf, K-Ca, and S systems. * Dynamic range: >=109. * 3 Daly detectors (to replace standard Ion Counters) for enhanced dynamic range. * Collision/reaction cell for interference removal (e.g., oxide and hydride interferences). 4. Sample Introduction System * Dry plasma introduction system with a desolvating nebulizer (e.g., Aridus or equivalent). * Compatibility with laser ablation systems for in situ analysis of mineral phases (specifically ASI Resolution and ASI J200 Tandem). * Standard nebulizer and spray chamber for routine solution-based work. 5. Software and Data Handling * Software must support real-time data acquisition and display. * Isotope ratio calculations with correction for mass bias, blank, and interference. * Export formats compatible with common geochemical software (e.g., Iolite, Isoplot, Excel). 6. Installation and Support * Full installation, calibration, and on-site training must be provided. * Minimum 24 month warranty (36 month preferred) with options for extended service contracts. * Remote diagnostics and software updates should be available. 7. Compliance and Documentation * Must comply with relevant ISO and safety standards. * Full documentation including user manuals, maintenance guides, and performance certificates must be provided. 8. Desirable * Extended warranty beyond 24 months. * Service support contract costings as options. Budget: PS450,000.00 to PS500,000.00 (ex. VAT). Offers for ex-demonstration or refurbished equipment are welcome however these will be considered from manufacturers only, not customers or third party resellers.

Planning Information

Please send information outlining how you meet the requirements to ruth.powell@port.ac.uk. This should include technical specifications, delivery arrangements and lead times, service and warranty information. Any queries can also be directed to the same contact.

Notice Details

Publication & Lifecycle

Open Contracting ID
ocds-h6vhtk-05ebd3
Publication Source
Find A Tender Service
Latest Notice
https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/078445-2025
Current Stage
Planning
All Stages
Planning

Procurement Classification

Notice Type
UK2 - Preliminary Market Engagement Notice
Procurement Type
Standard
Procurement Category
Goods
Procurement Method
Not Specified
Procurement Method Details
Not specified
Tender Suitability
SME
Awardee Scale
Not specified

Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV)

CPV Divisions

38 - Laboratory, optical and precision equipments (excl. glasses)

CPV Codes

38000000 - Laboratory, optical and precision equipments (excl. glasses)

Notice Value(s)

Tender Value
£450,000 £100K-£500K
Lots Value
Not specified
Awards Value
Not specified
Contracts Value
Not specified

Notice Dates

Publication Date
1 Dec 20253 days ago
Submission Deadline
Not specified
Future Notice Date
5 Jan 20262 months to go
Award Date
Not specified
Contract Period
6 Jan 2026 - 5 Feb 2029 3-4 years
Recurrence
Not specified

Notice Status

Tender Status
Planning
Lots Status
Planning
Awards Status
Not Specified
Contracts Status
Not Specified

Buyer & Supplier

Contracting Authority (Buyer)

Main Buyer
UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH
Contact Name
Sarah McGrady
Contact Email
sarah.mcgrady@port.ac.uk
Contact Phone
Not specified

Buyer Location

Locality
PORTSMOUTH
Postcode
PO1 2EG
Post Town
Portsmouth
Country
England
Major Region (ITL 1)
TLJ South East (England)
Basic Region (ITL 2)
TLJ3 Hampshire and Isle of Wight
Small Region (ITL 3)
TLJ31 Portsmouth
Delivery Location
TLJ31 Portsmouth
Local Authority
Portsmouth
Electoral Ward
St Thomas
Westminster Constituency
Portsmouth South

Further Information

Notice Documents

Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS)

View full OCDS Record for this contracting process

Download

The Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS) is a framework designed to increase transparency and access to public procurement data in the public sector. It is widely used by governments and organisations worldwide to report on procurement processes and contracts. 

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