Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our FAQs for insights on Lumetallix Instant Lead Detection Kit’s functions, applications, and the vital role of lead detection in protecting health and the environment.
Safety
Lumetallix has consulted experts on chemical safety and the reagent is safe to use with suitable precautions. The main component is alcohol and therefore it is flammable and can irritate the skin. However, each pump of the spray releases only 0.1 ml of reagent. If many tests are performed, it is advisable to wear gloves to protect your skin.
Additionally, using similar safety precautions as for example, bathroom cleaning agents, etc. is also advised: well-vented area, wear safety glasses or face shield, avoid looking into flashlight, ensure that the spray is pointed towards the right direction, do not spray towards or onto people, do not spray towards warm objects, electricity cables, etc.
Even though the spray is safe, the kit should be kept out of reach of children. Avoid inhaling the spray and it should not be sprayed on items that children will touch and mouth. Also, avoid looking into the light directly as the UV can harm eyes.
Always keep the reagent spray and dripper in an upright position when not in use to avoid leakage.
Besides extensive consultation with safety experts, the team at Lumetallix has also used the test extensively in and around their homes for more than 3 years. Additionally, NGOs have also used the test kit in many locations around the world.
The test doubles also as a coloring test. High concentrations of lead turn yellow. Therefore, one should test on an inconspicuous place first. It also might stain sensitive surfaces like varnish due to its alcohol content. It is also mildly corrosive; therefore, when testing metals, it should be wiped off or rinsed with water afterwards to avoid rust formation or staining.
The reagent is water soluble and can be wiped off. However, if lead is detected, a discoloration can appear and the reagent may harm sensitive surfaces. Thus, it should be tested on inconspicuous places first.
The reagent can be washed off with water. If the toy can be properly cleaned before returning it to the child, then it is safe to be used on the toy.
Yes, the MSDS for the test kit is available upon request. As the active compounds are only present in very low concentrations, it has the same safety profile as isopropyl alcohol which is the main ingredient in hand sanitizers.
Test Performance
The lead test kit was developed to only detect lead. However, if the lead is inaccessible, the test will be negative. The test is a screening test. It is not intended to replace X-ray fluorescence.
Ppm is measured on a volume while the test’s technique is mainly sensitive on the surface, making converting between the photoluminescent signal and ppm not straightforward. However, a study showed that the sensitivity for lead in paint is approximately 500 ppm. Read more here
Yes, we have seen variations in outcomes depending on items and materials. In general, the reagent needs to be able to interact with the lead to form the light-emitting perovskite structure. However, we have seen that the reagent can diffuse into paint, glass, and plastics to react. Also depending on the item, different testing methods may help. For instance, for metals (cooking pans, jewelry, etc.) it is often better to rub the metal with a melamine sponge (also known as a magic eraser) and then test on the sponge instead of testing directly on the metal.
You can perform nearly 500 tests per kit.
You will generally get instant results, but when lead is encapsulated (like in plastics for example), it can take longer. If in doubt, check after a few minutes and after an hour again.
This depends on the substance. For some objects, the photoluminescence will become weaker after a few minutes, but many paint sources remain glowing for days or longer. Water can break down the light-emitting material, thereby stopping the photoluminescence. However, if the light-emitting material is encapsulated, it can remain intact.
If you keep the cap carefully closed, you can keep your reagent for 2 years or more. However, if you do not close the cap properly, you can keep it for nearly 6 months.
Unless the reagent has turned amber, it will still be effective. Also, make sure to check your flashlight: if it looks bright when shining on white paper, it is working. Otherwise, change the battery.
In order to extend the reagent’s shelf life, we recommend storing the kit in a dark cool place. Also, always keep the reagent spray and dripper in an upright position when not in use to avoid leakage.
The test works only for lead, this means that it does not light up with other heavy metals.
What can I test with the Lumetallix™ kit?
With the Lumetallix lead test kit, you can test paint, ceramics, glass, plastics, metals, and wooden structures. You can test your everyday items such as plates or toys.
Yes, but beware of discoloration. Wipe your antique items carefully after testing.
Yes, but we advise washing the fabric after testing to avoid stains and skin irritation.
Yes, the test works best on paint, but it can detect lead solder. If the solder is very smooth, it might need to be roughened first.
Even though the test worked on some cosmetics under specific conditions, we do not recommend testing cosmetics. Lumetallix is still studying the reaction of the test for cosmetics.
The kit is not designed for soil, but it is still possible to detect lead in soil under specific conditions. It has been shown to detect lead in soil in a field trial in India with Pure Earth.
For the time being, it is not possible to use the Lumetallix lead detection kit with water or wet items. Lumetallix is currently working on implementing its technology for water tests.
The current version of the test is not suitable to test spices such as turmeric. Turmeric contains curcumin, which by itself shows green fluorescence. Also, many foods contain either molecules that light up under the LeadLight or contain water which makes them unsuitable to be tested. Additionally, the test kit cannot be used on foods even more since the reagent should not be swallowed.
Dry the surface first; water affects the test.
Other Questions
Yes, I do and I would be happy to share some of the knowledge that I have on making your home, school, or workplace a safer place. Aside from lead-related advice, I can also share my ‘crunchy’ knowledge on other parts of your life. For example, if you are pregnant and would like to have a healthier pregnancy, I can guide you too. The consultation will be tailored to your needs. Please contact care@allthingscrunchy.com to request for a quote on the fee.
Legal disclaimer for private consultations:
IMPORTANT NOTE: My consultation service does not constitute medical advice or diagnosis. It is solely for educational purposes and I do not work directly with anyone in the medical professions. Kindly consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new healthcare regimen.
Yes, but it often works best when the surface is a little scratched. We recommend using a sharp tool (knife or cutter) to draw an X before testing.
If it is an item, please do not donate the item but discard it properly. If it is lead paint which is part of a building or soil, check the guidelines of your department of public health. EPA has a good guideline: https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-safe-renovations-diyers
The volume of the test kit is designed such that it is compliant with aviation standards. Similar to other flammable items like hand sanitizer, it may be subject to staff discretion for hand baggage.
Yes. Visit our webshop for more information.
The empty bottles can be disposed of in the recycling bin.
We take lead detection seriously and guarantee the quality of the Lumetallix Instant Lead Detection Kit. However, if there are any issues, please see our Refunds & Exchange Policy. If there are any further concerns, please reach out to us at care@allthingscrunchy.com.