ATP test: Difference between revisions
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1st Generation ATP test formats are derived from [[hygiene]] monitoring uses where samples are relatively free of interferences. 2nd Generation tests are specifically designed for water, wastewater and industrial applications where, for the most part, samples contain a variety of components that can interfere with the ATP assay<ref>http://www.luminultra.com/resources/case-studies-technical-papers/case-studies-technical-papers.html</ref>. |
1st Generation ATP test formats are derived from [[hygiene]] monitoring uses where samples are relatively free of interferences. 2nd Generation tests are specifically designed for water, wastewater and industrial applications where, for the most part, samples contain a variety of components that can interfere with the ATP assay<ref>http://www.luminultra.com/resources/case-studies-technical-papers/case-studies-technical-papers.html</ref>. |
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== How is ATP Measured? == |
== How is ATP Measured? == |
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Revision as of 19:41, 16 October 2009
ATP Testing Method
ATP testing is the process of rapidly measuring active microorganisms through detection of a molecule called Adenosine Triphosphate, or ATP.
ATP is a molecule found only in and around living cells, and as such it gives a direct measure of biological concentration and health. ATP is quantified by measuring the light produced through its reaction with the naturally-occurring firefly enzyme Luciferase using a Luminometer. The amount of light produced is directly proportional to the amount of biological energy present in the sample[1].
If there are microorganisms present, there is ATP!
ATP tests can be used to:
- Control biological treatment reactors
- Guide biocide dosing programs
- Determine drinking water cleanliness
- Manage fermentation processes
- Assess soil activity
- Determine corrosion / deposit process type
- Measure equipment or product sanitation
1st Generation Testing vs 2nd Generation Testing
1st Generation ATP test formats are derived from hygiene monitoring uses where samples are relatively free of interferences. 2nd Generation tests are specifically designed for water, wastewater and industrial applications where, for the most part, samples contain a variety of components that can interfere with the ATP assay[2].
How is ATP Measured?
Within a water sample containing microorganisms, there are two types of ATP:
- Intra-cellular ATP – ATP contained within living biological cells.
- Extra-cellular ATP – ATP located outside of biological cells that has been released from dead or stressed organisms.
Accurate measurement of these two types of ATP is critical to utilizing ATP-based measurements. Being able to accurately measure these different types of ATP offers the ability to assess biological health and activity, and subsequently control water and wastewater processes[3].