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What is LifeCheck ATP testing?

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Are you looking for a fast and reliable way to monitor microbial activity and ensure the safety of your systems. LifeCheckTM ATP testing offers a cutting-edge solution that delivers rapid, accurate, and portable results for identifying microbial contamination in real-time. This versatile testing method is trusted across industries such as oil and gas, municipal water treatment, and manufacturing.

LifeCheckTM ATP kits simplify microbial monitoring with on-site testing capabilities, reducing operational downtime and enhancing safety. Whether it's liquid samples, solid surface, or biofilms, these versatile kits are tailored to meet diverse industrial needs. Specifically designed for oil and gas applications, they can handle a wide range of sample types, including flowback, brines, sludge, pig returns, corrosion coupons, emulsions, crude oil, and more. By providing actionable insights into microbial activity, LifeCheckTM ATP testing empowers organizations to optimize processes, mitigate risks like souring, microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC), or plugging, and meet regulatory standards.

What is ATP?

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a universal energy molecule present in all living cells. By measuring ATP levels, LifeCheckTM ATP testing provides a clear snapshot of microbial load, enabling informed decisions about system maintenance, biocide application, and contamination control.

Why Choose LifeCheck ATP Testing?

  • Speed: Get results in as little as 5-10 minutes, enabling quick decision-making.
  • Versatility: Accurately test liquid samples, solid surfaces, and biofilms, making it suitable for a wide range of environments.
  • Portability: Conduct rests in the field or the lab, minimizing downtime and logistical challenges
  • Accuracy: Establish precise baselines for microbial monitoring and biocide treatment optimization.

How Does LifeCheck ATP Testing Work?

The LifeCheckTM ATP testing process is streamlined and efficient:

  1. Sample Collection: The process begins by collecting a liquid, solid, or surface sample, following proper protocols to avoid contamination
  2. ATP Extraction: Specialized reagents are used to break open microbial cells, releasing ATP into a solution. For instance, Reagent X acts as a lysing agent, ensuring complete cell disruption.
  3. Measurement: The extracted ATP reacts with an enzyme in Reagent Z, producing light that is measured by the luminometer. The intensity of this light correlates directly with the microbial load.
  4. Quantification: The results are converted into Microbial Equivalents (ME/mL or ME/g), using a calculator or worksheet for precise quantification

Applications of LifeCheck ATP Testing

  • Monitoring Biocide Effectiveness: Evaluate the performance of microbial control programs and ensure biocides are working as intended.
  • Detecting Biofilm Formation: Identify biofilm buildup that can lead to costly microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC).
  • Assessing Water Quality: Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and maintain high water quality.
  • Tracking Long-Term Trends: Establish baselines and monitor microbial activity trends over time to optimize system performance.

Important Considerations

LifeCheckTM ATP testing measures total microbial activity, but it does not identify specific species. For species-level insights, consider pairing with qPCR or NGS analysis. This combination provides a comprehensive understanding of microbial ecosystems.

Need Help or Want to Learn More?

Our team of experts is here to assist you with your microbiological monitoring needs. Whether you have questions, need technical support, or want to learn more about LifeCheck ATP testing, contact LuminUltra® Support to get started.

 

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