R2A
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about R2A from 3G Electric.
What is R2A Agar and what is it used for?
R2A Agar is a low-nutrient microbiological medium formulated for the enumeration of heterotrophic bacteria in water and other low-nutrient samples. It is designed to recover stressed, chlorine-injured, and slow-growing organisms that may not grow well on standard plate count agar. Typical applications include potable water testing, pharmaceutical water systems, and industrial cooling water monitoring. The medium supports heterotrophic plate count (HPC) methods and is available in prepared plates, liquid bottles, and dehydrated powder forms from 3G Electric.
What formats of R2A media does 3G Electric supply?
3G Electric supplies R2A media in several formats: prepared agar in 100 mL and 250 mL bottles (SKUs 45H370 and 45H371), prepared agar in 500 mL bottles (SKU 45H372), 100 x 15 mm plates (SKU 45H473), and dehydrated powder in 500 mL bottles (SKU 39M572). The prepared liquid media and plates are ready to use, while the powder requires preparation according to standard microbiological procedures. Each format has specific shelf-life and storage requirements, detailed in the product specifications.
What is the shelf life of R2A Agar products?
Shelf life varies by format. Prepared R2A Agar in 100 mL, 250 mL, and 500 mL bottles has a 180-day shelf life. R2A Agar plates (100 x 15 mm) have a 90-day shelf life. The dehydrated powder form (500 mL bottle) has a 2-year shelf life when stored properly. These shelf lives are based on manufacturer specifications and assume appropriate storage conditions, typically at 2-8°C for prepared media and room temperature for powder. Always refer to the product label and certificate of analysis for specific lot information.
Can R2A Agar be used for pour-plate and spread-plate methods?
Yes, R2A Agar in prepared liquid form or dehydrated powder can be used for pour-plate methods after melting and cooling to approximately 45-50°C. Prepared plates are suitable for spread-plate or membrane filtration techniques. The medium's low nutrient content supports the growth of stressed organisms, and its solid form allows for colony enumeration. For optimal recovery, follow standard microbiological procedures and incubate at the appropriate temperature, typically 20-28°C for water samples, for the recommended duration.
What is the manufacturer part number for R2A Agar plates?
The R2A Agar plates supplied by 3G Electric have the manufacturer part number MP3100. These plates are 100 x 15 mm in size and have a 90-day shelf life. They are ready for use in heterotrophic plate count testing and are packaged to maintain sterility. For ordering, use SKU 45H473. 3G Electric can provide documentation including certificates of analysis and safety data sheets upon request.
How should R2A media be stored?
Storage conditions depend on the format. Prepared R2A Agar in bottles and plates should be stored at 2-8°C, protected from light, and used within the stated shelf life. Dehydrated powder should be stored in a cool, dry place, tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption, and has a 2-year shelf life. Avoid freezing prepared media. Always allow plates and bottles to equilibrate to room temperature before use. Refer to the product label and safety data sheet for specific handling instructions.
