Abstract: A device and method is provided for separating components of a fluid sample. The device includes a plurality of constituents comprising a container, a liner in the container, a closure for the container and a composite element. The composite element is a seal plug with a density between the densities of the components of the fluid sample is releasably engaged with the container closure and with the liner. A needle cannula is used to deposit a fluid sample in the liner and the entire device is placed in a centrifuge. The centrifugal load causes the seal plug to separate from the closure and causes the liner to expand outwardly against the container. The seal plug migrates into the fluid sample and stabilizes between the densities of the components of the fluid sample. The liner will resiliently return to its initial configuration upon termination of centrifugal load such that the liner sealingly engages the seal plug and separates the components of the fluid sample.

Abstract: An additive formulation comprising heparinase and trehalose, a method for using the formulation and a device containing the formulation. The additive formulation is useful in substantially neutralizing residual heparin from a blood sample when used in a blood collection tube without interfering with the clinical analysis of the blood sample.

Abstract: A device and method is provided for separating heavier and lighter fractions of a fluid sample. The device includes a plurality of constituents. The constituents include a container, a liner in the container and a composite element in the liner for separating the fractions of a fluid sample. The separator comprises a specific density at a target density range as defined by separable fluid components densities. A fluid sample is delivered to the liner and then the device is subjected to centrifugation whereby the centrifugal load causes the liner to deform and the composite element migrates into the fluid sample and stabilizes between the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample. The liner will resiliently return to its initial configuration upon termination of the centrifugal load such that the liner sealingly engages the composite element and separates the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample.