ASTM E2694-16

5.1 This method measures the concentration of ATP present in the sample. ATP is a constituent of all living cells, including bacteria and fungi. Consequently, the presence of ATP is an indicator of total microbial contamination in metalworking fluids. ATP is not associated with matter of non-biological origin.

5.2 Method D4012 validated ATP as a surrogate for culturable bacterial data (Guide E1326).

5.3 This method differs from Method D4012 in that it eliminates interferences that have historically rendered ATP testing unusable with complex organic fluids such as MWF.

5.4 The ATP test provides rapid test results that reflect the total bioburden in the sample. It thereby reduces the delay between test initiation and data capture, from the 36 h to 48 h (or longer) required for culturable colonies to become visible, to approximately five minutes.

5.5 Although ATP data generally covary with culture data in MWF4, different factors affect ATP concentration than those that affect culturability.

1.1 This test method provides a protocol for capturing, extracting and quantifying the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content associated with microorganisms found in water-miscible metalworking fluids (MWF).

1.2 The ATP is measured using a bioluminescence enzyme assay, whereby light is generated in amounts proportional to the concentration of ATP in the samples. The light is produced and measured quantitatively as relative light units (RLU) which are converted by comparison with an ATP standard and computation to pg ATP/mL.

1.3 This test method is equally suitable for use in the laboratory or field.

1.4 The test method detects ATP concentrations in the range of 4.0 pg ATP/mL to 400 000 pg ATP/mL.

1.5 Providing interferences can be overcome, bioluminescence is a reliable and proven method for qualifying and quantifying ATP. The method does not differentiate between ATP from different sources, for example, from different types of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi.

1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.