CPE CBRND Seeking Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) of Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) on Aluminum Flakes for Screening Obscuration Module - Multispectral (SOM-M)

The U.S. Army is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to gauge industry capability to perform high‑volume Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) of Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂) onto 2‑4 µm aluminum flakes for the Screening Obscuration Module‑Multispectral (SOM‑M) program. The goal is to identify commercial‑scale manufacturers that can produce the bispectral obscurant material at a lower cost and in quantities ranging from hundreds of pounds to tons, supporting future Army‑funded maturation efforts. Respondents must submit a ≤5‑page white paper outlining their production approach, cost projections, scalability, facility readiness, risk assessment, and relevant past performance by 5 PM EST, 13 Nov 2026. • Required capability: PVD coating of SiO₂ on 2‑4 µm aluminum flakes. • Desired production scale: hundreds of pounds up to multiple tons. • Emphasis on cost‑effective, high‑volume manufacturing pathways. • Submission format: electronic, ≤5 pages, include company details and point‑of‑contact. • Evaluation focus: technical feasibility, cost‑reduction potential, maturity, capacity, and risk mitigation.