Scope
Reference
UKRI-5382
Description
The ISIS Neutron and Muon Source is a world-leading centre for research using neutrons and muons, supporting a broad scientific user community across disciplines such as materials science, physics, chemistry, and engineering. As part of its detector development programme, ISIS manufactures a range of in-house detectors, including wavelength-shifting fibre (WLSF) based scintillation detectors, which are critical for capturing and characterising neutron interactions with high spatial and temporal resolution.
A key component of these detectors is the neutron scintillator screen which is composed of a zinc sulphide silver activated phosphor and an enriched lithium-6 fluoride neutron-sensitive converter material. Following neutron capture in the converter, light is emitted from the phosphor subsequently collected by wavelength-shifting fibres and guided to photodetectors for signal processing. The quality, consistency and performance of the scintillator screen directly impact detection efficiency and effective gamma‑ray and background discrimination.
To support new detector builds, particularly for the HRPD-X, SANDALS II and WISH II instruments, a framework contract is required to ensure a reliable supply of high-performance ZnS:Ag/6LiF screens that meets the stringent technical and operational demands of ISIS instruments. These screens must be provided in different shapes, sizes and thicknesses to match the range of instrument beamline geometries and neutron fluxes encountered at ISIS. Some of the screens will be operated in vacuum and must be capable of maintaining performance within a vacuum environment for the lifetime of the detector, typically 15 years.
The purpose of this tender is to guarantee a steady supply of ZnS:Ag/6LiF neutron scintillator screens to cover the needs of the ISIS Endeavour Programme, a 10-year programme to upgrade the suite of ISIS instruments. It will ensure a consistent and reliable product is always being provided throughout the programme. It will help to reduce the need for generating repeat tendering and for storing large quantities of product on site until needed.
Total value (estimated)
- £1,760,000 excluding VAT
- £2,112,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 11 March 2026 to 10 March 2030
- 4 years
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 38000000 - Laboratory, optical and precision equipments (excl. glasses)
Contract locations
- UKJ14 - Oxfordshire
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
22 January 2026, 2:00pm
Tender submission deadline
3 February 2026, 2:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
To access this opportunity please click here: https://ukri2.my.salesforce-sites.com/ProSpend__CS_ContractPage?SearchType=Projects&uid=a1MTm0000099PbVMAU&searchStr=5382&sortStr=Recently+Published&page=1&filters=&County= Please note the following steps for accessing this opportunity via the Atamis eSourcing platform: 1. Log in or create an account here: https://ukri2.my.site.com 2. Navigate to the opportunity in the Find an Opportunity section of the site or via the direct access link above. 3. Select Register Interest (you will not be able to view the tender documentation without registering an interest). 4. Go back to the main menu and navigate to the My Proposals and Quotes section of the site. 5. Select the opportunity from the list. Tender Documents for download are found in the Documents tab.
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
18 February 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Technical/Quality | Quality | 75.00% |
| Price | Price | 25.00% |
Other information
Applicable trade agreements
- Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Contracting authority
UK Research & Innovation (UKRI)
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PDQJ-7126-JDHG
Polaris House
Swindon, Wiltshire
SN2 1FL
United Kingdom
Contact name: STFC Procurement
Telephone: +44 1793442000
Email: stfcprocurement@ukri.org
Website: https://www.ukri.org/
Region: UKK14 - Swindon
Organisation type: Public authority - central government