The RFP is an invitation to submit offers for the provision of a Scanning Electron Microscope to be used in a shared-access facility that will primarily serve geological/mineralogical researchers.The complete system will include: (1) a conventional-source variable-pressure SEM with integrated secondary electron detector and backscattered electron (BSE) detector(s), (2) a high-throughput (³ 50 mm2) energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS), (3) an electron backscattered diffraction detector (EBSD), and (4) cathodoluminescence (CL) detector. The system must be capable of large-area mapping (e.g. frame stitching/tiling) with EBSD, EDS, BSE and CL detectors. The system must also be capable of holding two standard-size petrological thin-sections (26mm x 45mm) with a range of stage motion that allows both sections to be completely mapped (in a continuous run). When collecting EBSD data, the system must be capable of mapping in full one 25 x 40 mm domain in a single run at a working distance £30 mm.
As a multi-user facility with a range of user expertise, the SEM needs to be robust (low service requirements) and have design features that reduce the risk of user-initiated damage (i.e. touch alarms or sample movement limits). The system will be installed on a ground-level concrete-floored laboratory with low background vibration. The access to this laboratory is through a 0.89 meter wide door. Please ensure the instrument can be installed in this facility without additional renovations.
SFU’s budget is $380,000 CAD for the basic instrument + $50,000 CAD value-adds, including 8.65% tax, duties, and freight/shipping. SFU’s budget for extended warranty, preventative maintenance, and operating costs is $120,000 CAD over 5 years.
