68HERW26Q0077 - Brand Name Cryo Mill

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Contract Opportunity

PSC - 6640- Combined synopsis and solicitation: Brand Name acquisition of Cryo Mill cryogenic grinder instrumentation:

This brand name acquisition is for a Verder Scientific Inc. “Cryo Mill” cryogenic grinder with accessories. This request for quote is limited to authorized distributors of this product, which also includes the manufacturer.

The EPA requires specialized instrumentation to study both microplastics (small plastic particles measuring less than 5 millimeters (mm) in size) and nanoplastics (small plastic particles that measure less than 1000 nanometers (nm) in size). Commercial grinding/milling devices are able to grind material into fine particles. However, the friction from that process generates substantial heat, especially as the material is ground into smaller material. The ability to maintain a consistent cold temperature during this process is needed to prevent the material from melting, which is particularly important for plastic, which can melt from the generated heat to grind small microplastics and nanoplastics under ambient conditions. The Cryo Mill is the only cryogenic grinder that the EPA has determined can meet the government’s specifications. These specifications include:

1. Closed-vial system to reduce polymer contamination during use.
2. Stainless steel grinding chamber/ vial and accessories to reduce sample contamination.
3. Liquid nitrogen autofill accessories to provide continuous cooling of system during grinding and liquid nitrogen sensors for safety precautions.
4. Capacity to grind at least 50 mL of material.
5. Ability to use various sizes of grinding slugs or balls to optimize grinding procedures to make reproducible protocols.
6. Benchtop model to fit in current lab space configuration (under 2 ft2 size).
7. Availability of multiple grinding chambers to avoid cross contamination between different polymers, reduce downtime, and increase sample processing.
8. Demonstrated ability to create nanoplastic particles (9. Programmable ability to store multiple protocols for accurate replication of procedures.

The instrumentation for this requirement must include the items listed in Attachment 1 - the Statement of Work.

The EPA’s confidence in the Cryo Mill is based on consistent results achieved in micro and nanoplastic research, as demonstrated in published studies and at institutions like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), which provided documented information on the Cryo Mill’s unique milling procedures and nitrogen cooling process for grinding plastics to the necessary size. These outcomes have only been realized with the Cryo Mill due to its distinctive configuration, including nitrogen autofill and customizable milling protocols, which are not available in competing products. No evidence was found that other cryogenic grinders can consistently achieve the necessary fineness or deliver results beyond the unique technical specifications of the Cryo Mill—specifically, grinding plastics to sizes below 1000 nm.

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