Scope
Reference
P-38457
Description
Provision of a robotic system(s) suitable for the trace analysis or semi volatile organic substances including but not limited to of Poly Fluro Alkyl Substances (PFAS) in a range of environmental waters and associated materials. All critical parts of the system must therefore be free of PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) and other PFAS containing materials.
The system will be used in the development of up to 7 existing methodologies for which the modules described have been determined as being required to cover the range of analytes.
Fully automated, computer controlled standalone* benchtop robotic system with the ability to house and control multiple modules as described for the automation of liquid-liquid extraction for a minimum of 45 samples per single workflow.
* Not connected to an analytical instrument.
The system must comprise as a minimum but not limited to the following modules:
• Duel robotic arm to house twin syringe systems
• Sample vial tray holder
• Wash station with Waste Port
• Solvent containing Reservoirs
• Shaker / Vortex
• Centrifuge
• Tool Storage Location
• Vial decapper
• Temperature Controlled Vial Storage
• Nitrogen Evaporator
Total value (estimated)
- £400,000 excluding VAT
- £480,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 30 March 2026 to 29 March 2029
- 3 years
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 38000000 - Laboratory, optical and precision equipments (excl. glasses)
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
31 October 2025
Engagement process description
Testing the market to assist in the determination of the procurement strategy for a robotic system(s) suitable for the trace analysis or semi volatile organic substances including but not limited to of Poly Fluro Alkyl Substances (PFAS) in a range of environmental waters and associated materials.
If you are able to provide this requirement please get in touch with the procurement team, no later than close on Friday 31st October 2025, at: mandy.worsnop@defra.gov.uk, providing details of potential solutions.
Please use the subject title “EA Robotic System(s) Market Engagement” in your request.
Any future tender exercise will be conducted through the Defra eSourcing portal. If your organisation is not already registered, you can create an account at https://defra-family.force.com/s/Welcome.
This engagement does not constitute a formal notice to tender and there is no guarantee the Environment Agency will proceed with an external tendering exercise to create a form of contract.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
22 December 2025
Contracting authority
ENVIRONMENT AGENCY
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PNWW-1475-NYLN
Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street
London
SW1P 4DF
United Kingdom
Contact name: Mandy Worsnop
Email: mandy.worsnop@defra.gov.uk
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government
Other organisation
These organisations are carrying out the procurement, or part of it, on behalf of the contracting authorities.
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS
Summary of their role in this procurement: Defra group Commercial carrying out the procurement on behalf of the Environment Agency.
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PNBD-3289-CDGX
Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street
London
SW1P 4DF
United Kingdom
Contact name: Mandy Worsnop
Email: mandy.worsnop@defra.gov.uk
Region: UKI32 - Westminster