Use of enzyme somase® in the measurement of biofilm using bioluminescence

Analysis of the biofilm on a distribution system model pipe rig gave high readings of extracellular adenosine-5′-triphosphate (ATP). The free ATP was assumed to come from dead cells at the base of the biofilm. The levels were large in proportion to the measured cellular ATP and were unstable. This resulted in errors in the calculation of cellular ATP. An enzyme Somase (0.5%) was employed to hydrolyse the free ATP. Increased accuracy of the measurement of cellular ATP was seen.