University of Turku; Direct award High-resolution solid-state NMR system

University intends to purchase solid state 600 MHz NMR system with a 3.2 mm CP MAS probe. The solid-state NMR instrument in question (NMR console Avance, is Neo-X 600 mhz SB the only instrument in the market that meet all the specific and necessary technical requirements to fulfil the uncompromising needs of the acquiring department, Centre for Chemical and Molecular Analysis (CCMA) as follows:

• Our previous methods for user specific needs have been developed on our existing 400 MHz magnet coupled to a CP-MAS probe. The methods and pulse sequences need to be transferable between these two systems to maintain smooth laboratory operations.
• Our existing 600 MHz probes need to be compatible with the new system including probe length and ability to control and use the Prodigy cryoplatform.
• The new system must be able to control and accept samples delivered by a Bruker Sample case to allow for queued solid state samples.
• The control software for the new 600 MHz instrument system must be integrated to our existing systems to allow for the efficient training of users given the open access nature of our core facility.
• The magnet must be a shielded system due to its presence in a large room with other shielded NMRs and to have a non-shielded system would pose a major safety risk to users. According to the Act on Public Procurement and Concession Contracts (1397/2016) section 40 when only a certain supplier can implement the procurement for a technical reason, provided also that there are no reasonable alternatives or substitute solutions, and that the absence of competition is not due to an artificial narrowing of the terms and conditions of the procurement, the contract may be awarded only to a particular supplier, contracting authorities may award public contracts by a direct award. Prior to making decision the contracting authority has inspected the relevant markets and available products and after careful consideration found its' conclusion grounded.