This kit measures total and dissolved ATP (tATP, dATP) to deliver a direct, real-time view of microbial load and stress in specialty, high-solids fluids such as paints, coatings, adhesives, and slurries. Results help you verify preservation/biocide programs, prevent spoilage and defects, and protect product quality.
tATP only kit instructions
This kit measures total ATP (tATP) to provide a direct, real-time view of overall microbial load in specialty, high-solids fluids such as paints, coatings, adhesives, and slurries. Results help you verify preservation/biocide programs, detect contamination early, and protect product quality.
Key terms
ATP: Adenosine triphosphate, energy molecule of living cells.
tATP (Total ATP): All ATP in the sample (living + dead cells).
dATP (Dissolved ATP): ATP released from dead or compromised cells.
cATP (Cellular ATP): ATP inside living cells, representing active biomass.
RLU: Relative Light Units (measurement from luminometer).
RLU ATP1: Calibration signal from UltraCheck 1.
BSI (Biomass Stress Index): Stress level of the microbial community.
Run this test with the Relay™ app
Relay™ is your tool to easily calculate, organize, and share results. Access is included with your purchase.
If you are new to Relay™, follow the guides to first create a site and sample location.
Connect to your luminometer, then select RUN TESTS to begin a new test.
As you work through these test kit instructions, you can initiate RLU readings directly within Relay™ by selecting READ on any input. Once all inputs are entered, your results will automatically calculate.
1.2 Rehydrate the LuminaseXL enzyme
Gently mix the Buffer and LuminaseXL enzyme.
Wait 5 minutes for solution to dissolve.
After rehydration, keep Luminase refrigerated or frozen; it stays effective for 2–4 weeks at 4°C (39°F) or 3–6 months when frozen between uses. Before testing, let it thaw and reach room temperature (takes about 1 hour). Do not apply direct heat to warm it faster. For more details, visit my.luminultra.com.
1.3 Calibration using UltraCheck 1 (RLU ATP1)
Hold the UltraCheck 1 bottle vertical and add 2 drops (100µL) of it to a 12x55mm test tube.
Pipet 100µL of LuminaseXL into the tube.
Swirl the tube, place it in the luminometer, and take the RLU ATP1 reading (select READ) within 10 seconds.
If RLU ATP1 ≤ 50,000 rehydrate a new bottle of LuminaseXL.
Once UltraCheck 1 is opened, it must be used within 3 months. After 3 months, discard and use a new bottle.
2. Total ATP analysis (RLU tATP)
2.1 Pre-dilution
Mix sample well.
Add 1mL of sample to a 9mL UltraLute (dilution) tube.
2.2 Extraction
Using a new pipet tip, add 1 mL of pre-diluted sample from the UltraLute (dilution) tubeto a new 1mL UltraLyse 3021 (extraction) tube.
Cap and invert to mix, allow 1 min for extraction.
2.3 Dilution
Pour the UltraLyse 3021 (extraction) tube contents into a new 8mL UltraLute/Resin (dilution) tube.
Transfer the mixture between the tubes at least 3 times.
Allow the beads to settle.
2.4 Assay
Add 100µL of the UltraLute/Resin (dilution) solution to a 12x55mm test tube.
Use a new pipet tip to add 100µL of LuminaseXL.
Swirl the tube, place it in the luminometer, and take the RLU tATP reading (select READ) within 10 seconds.
In Relay™, select SAVE TEST.
3. Dissolved ATP analysis (RLU dATP)
3.1 Dilution
Using a new pipet tip, add 1mL of pre-diluted sample from the UltraLute (dilution) tube to a new 9mL LumiSolve (stabilizer) tube.
Cap and invert to mix, allow 1 min for extraction.
3.2 Assay
Add 100µL of the 9mL LumiSolve solution to a 12x55mm test tube.
Use a new pipet tip to add 100µL of LuminaseXL.
Swirl the tube, place it in the luminometer, and take the RLU dATP reading (select READ) within 10 seconds.
In Relay™, select SAVE TEST.
3. Analysis
Tip: Relay™ does the work For you
When all inputs are entered in Relay’sRun tests workflow, the results will calculate automatically. Select Save Test to catalog and share your results with your team.
Product Quality Control (Paints, Coatings, Slurries)
<100
100–1,000
>1,000
For BSI (when applicable), it can generally be interpreted that good control is achieved at levels of 75% or above. Preventive action should be taken at levels between 50% and 75%, and corrective action should be taken at levels below 50%.
These interpretation guidelines are designed for generic risk management guidance only. Users are encouraged to establish their own control ranges on which to base process decisions. LuminUltra and its affiliates do not accept any liability for any decision or assessment taken or made as a consequence of using this test kit.
Support
Troubleshooting
Issue
Recommendation
Readings are lower than expected values
Ensure reagents are not expired (expiry information can be found on reagent vials). Ensure reagents are being stored properly (storage information can be found on reagent vials)
Background readings are higher than expected
Check if your Luminometer needs to be cleaned. Quarterly cleaning (LCK kit) and annual linearity verification (LSK kit) is recommended. Cleaning and maintenance kits are available for purchase from LuminUltra.