SOURCES SOUGHT - 3D Bioprinter for Research Project for the Iowa City VA Healthcare System

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The Department of Veterans Affairs, Network 23 Contracting Office, is conducting research for a grant-funded project at the Iowa City VA Healthcare System Research Department. The project aims to explore the use of 3D bio-printed human corneal endothelial grafts as a renewable source for endothelial keratoplasty transplantations. This Sources Sought notice is intended to assess the availability and capability of businesses that can provide a 3D Bioprinter with specific features necessary for this research. The inquiry seeks to determine if there are alternative printers in the market that can meet these requirements. Work Details The contract involves providing a 3D Bioprinter, specifically the U-FAB Activo model or an equivalent, with the following specifications: - Equipment Size: 636.5(D) x 778(W) x 708.5(H) mm - Equipment Weight: 120 kg (264 lb) - Build Volume: 150(D) x 150(W) x 50(H) mm - Channel Variation: Three U-BIOLET dispensers (Low Viscosity Droplet) & ONE U-BIOXT-HV extruder (High Viscosity, Low ~High Temperature) - Crosslinking Method: UV / Temperature / Chemical / Enzymatic / pH-Sensitive - Max. Pneumatic Pressure: 8 bar - Interface: PC, Windows - Camera: 720p HD Camera - Power: 220V / AC 2.1A 460W Additional requirements include: 1. Ability to combine extrusion printing for high-viscosity biomaterials with droplet-based nanoliter deposition. 2. Capability of printing cells with high viability and enabling drop-by-drop spraying of low-viscosity biomaterials. 3. Multi-crosslinking capabilities for precise stabilization of diverse biomaterials. 4. Integration of camera-guided printing for real-time adjustments during printing. 5. Compatibility with external objects such as hard contact lenses. Place of Performance Department of Veterans Affairs, Iowa City VA Healthcare System, 601 Highway 6 West, Iowa City, IA, Postal Code: 52246, USA.