Planning

Particle Size and Shape Analyser

UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH

This public procurement record has 1 release in its history.

Planning

26 Jan 2026 at 00:00

OJEU - F1 - Prior Information Notice
Summary of the contracting process

The University of Edinburgh is seeking to procure a Particle Size and Shape Analyser to be used for characterising both natural and industrial granular materials. This initiative falls under the "Education" industry category with procurement planning in progress. The instrument will be delivered to the University of Edinburgh, located in the UKM75 region. Important dates to note include a planned publication of more detailed tender documentation on 2nd March 2026. This procurement is classified as "goods" in accordance with the CPV code 38000000, and is covered by the GPA agreement. The tender is currently under the planning stage, and the procurement will follow the rules set by the CELEX 32014L0024 legal basis.

This tender offers substantial growth opportunities for businesses specialising in scientific equipment, particularly those with expertise in particle analysis technologies. Companies with capabilities in producing high-precision measurement instruments using image-based techniques will find this procurement particularly suitable. The procurement's requirements for robust analytical capabilities and software integration present an advantageous entry point for firms looking to expand in the academic and research markets. Businesses with experience in offering comprehensive service and technical support may also find competitive advantages. Participation in this tender could enhance the business's profile and open further opportunities in higher education and research sectors.

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Notice Information

Notice Title

Particle Size and Shape Analyser

Notice Description

Instrument for particle size and shape characterisation of natural and industrial granular materials.

Lot Information

Lot 1

Instrument for particle size and shape characterisation of natural and industrial granular materials e.g.: -Volcanic flow particles (ash, lapilli, pumice, scoria etc.) derived from pyroclastic density currents, fallout deposits, lahars and debris flows. -Industrial particulate materials relevant to construction. -Soils -Construction materials (concretes, mortars, lightweight aggregates, composites) -Agricultural amendments and granules (including Biochar) -Polymer/composite additives -Energy storage materials (electrodes, conductive carbons) Materials will range from coarse granules to fine powders, typically irregular, porous, low-density and black. Essential requirements (minimum) Measurement capability -Measures both particle size distribution and particle shape in one instrument or tightly integrated system. -Image-based technique (e.g. dynamic image analysis or equivalent) suitable for irregular, opaque, carbonaceous particles. -Provides at least: -Size metrics: equivalent diameter, D10/D50/D90, full distribution. -Shape metrics: aspect ratio, circularity/roundness, and at least one compactness/solidity/convexity parameter. Size range and performance -Usable size range: -Lower limit <= 1mm -Upper limit >= 5 mm -Capable of analysing polydisperse samples in a single run. -At least 50,000 particles analysed per standard measurement (for powders). -Repeatability better than 3 % RSD on D10/D50/D90 for suitable reference materials. Sample handling and dispersion -Dry dispersion unit for low-density, porous, angular powders and granules: -Controlled feed (e.g. vibratory feeder or equivalent). -Adjustable dispersion energy/pressure. -Wet dispersion capability: -Recirculating wet cell for suspensions of soils, biochar and carbon powders. -Compatibility with at least water and common alcohols (e.g. ethanol or isopropanol). Shape analysis and classification -Shape parameters computed for all measured particles or size classes. -Ability to filter and analyse particles by size and/or shape (e.g. size range, aspect ratio range). -Display and export of representative particle images for documentation and publications. Software, data handling and reporting -Method/SOP editor for storing and recalling measurement conditions. -Export of size and shape data in standard formats (e.g. CSV, Excel). -Overlay and comparison of multiple measurements. -Configurable reports (number/area/volume distributions, cumulative and density plots, basic shape statistics). Calibration and practical aspects -Calibration/verification with traceable particle size standards in relevant ranges. -Documented traceability to relevant particle sizing standards (ISO/ASTM or equivalent). -Design suitable for dusty, abrasive, black powders, with straightforward cleaning of the dispersion path. -Enclosed optics and standard laser/electrical safety compliance. -Access to local service and technical support. 3. Desirable (nice-to-have) features Extended capabilities -Integrated laser diffraction module (wet and/or dry) using the same dispersion units, providing sub-micron coverage (0.1 mm or lower). -Dedicated fibre/rod analysis (length, width, L/W ratio) for fibrous chars/carbon fibres. -Extended upper size limit to >= 10 mm for large granules and aggregates. -Interchangeable optics/lenses to optimise measurements for fine powders vs coarse granules. Advanced dispersion and handling -Multiple dry disperser configurations (gentle and aggressive). -Integrated anti-static measures (e.g. ioniser) for very fine, low-density powders. -Low-volume wet cells (few mL) for expensive or low-yield materials. -Integrated, controllable ultrasonic dispersion (power and time) with logging. Automation and integration -Optional autosampler for unattended measurement of multiple samples. -API or scripting interface for method control and automated data extraction. -Database/LIMS connectivity for long-term storage and retrieval of results. Robustness -Wear-resistant materials in nozzles and flow paths. -Design that minimises cross-contamination.

Notice Details

Publication & Lifecycle

Open Contracting ID
ocds-r6ebe6-0000821672
Publication Source
Public Contracts Scotland
Latest Notice
https://www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk/search/show/search_view.aspx?ID=JAN548026
Current Stage
Planning
All Stages
Planning

Procurement Classification

Notice Type
OJEU - F1 - Prior Information Notice
Procurement Type
Standard
Procurement Category
Goods
Procurement Method
Not Specified
Procurement Method Details
Not specified
Tender Suitability
Not specified
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
Not specified
Lots Value
Not specified
Awards Value
Not specified
Contracts Value
Not specified

Notice Dates

Publication Date
26 Jan 20264 weeks ago
Submission Deadline
Not specified
Future Notice Date
2 Mar 20266 days to go
Award Date
Not specified
Contract Period
Not specified - Not specified
Recurrence
Not specified

Notice Status

Tender Status
Planned
Lots Status
Planned
Awards Status
Not Specified
Contracts Status
Not Specified

Buyer & Supplier

Contracting Authority (Buyer)

Main Buyer
UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH
Contact Name
Laura Schouten
Contact Email
laura.schouten@ed.ac.uk
Contact Phone
Not specified

Buyer Location

Locality
EDINBURGH
Postcode
EH1 1HT
Post Town
Edinburgh
Country
Scotland
Major Region (ITL 1)
TLM Scotland
Basic Region (ITL 2)
TLM1 East Central Scotland
Small Region (ITL 3)
TLM13 City of Edinburgh
Delivery Location
TLM75 City of Edinburgh
Local Authority
City of Edinburgh
Electoral Ward
City Centre
Westminster Constituency
Edinburgh East and Musselburgh

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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