Neutral cluster and air ion spectrometer

Tampere University Foundation sr (Tampere University, TAU) is about to execute a direct award procurement of 'Neutral cluster and air ion spectrometer (hereinafter also 'NAIS')'. Contracting authority estimates that procurement is worth €62 400 (excl. VAT).

BACKGROUND INFORMATION One of the research areas of Tampere University Aerosol Physics Laboratory (APL) focuses on the research of especially emission related aerosol particle formation. The existing research infrastructure includes extensive instrumentation for particulate matter characterization in the particle size range starting from approximately 1 nm. In addition to the more traditional aerosol instrumentation, the infrastructure is also equipped with state-of-the art aerosol and chemical ionization mass spectrometers capable of atmospheric pressure sampling. NEED In order to fill-in the gap between the traditional aerosol instrumentation and the instruments targeted for ion cluster measurement the APL is seeking for an air ion spectrometer capable of measuring the mobility spectrum in the mobility range from 0.001 to 1 cm²/V/s, relevant for ion clusters and freshly formed aerosol particles. The instrument must be capable of measuring both electrical polarities simultaneously with a temporal resolution of 1s or better, and with at least five measurement channels per polarity per decade of mobility. The sampling for the instrument must be in atmospheric conditions with a flow rate exceeding 5 liters/min. MARKET ANALYSIS AND CONCLUSION FOR DIRECT AWARD According to the section 40 of the Act on Public Procurement and Concession Contracts (1397/2016) a contracting entity may opt for direct procurement if only a certain supplier can implement the procurement for a technical reason, or for a reason related to protecting an exclusive right. According to contracting authority’s knowledge, the Neutral Air Ion Spectrometer (NAIS) supplied by Airel OÜ, Estonia, is the only instrument currently available meeting the requirements presented above. The NAIS is a well-established instrument, that has been widely used in the particle formation research. For the proper market survey purposes contracting authority has interviewed national experts in the field of this research area but has not found another instrument fulfilling all requirements.