Abstract: There is provided a method of charging an array of micro-capillaries. The micro-capillaries have at least one end that is open for fluid communication. The method includes the steps of: (a) filling the array of micro-capillaries with an assay liquid; (b) controllably evaporating at least some of the assay liquid to remove it from the micro-capillary and create a void space in each of the capillaries between the assay liquid and the open end; and (c) filling the void space with a liquid that is immiscible with said assay liquid. There is also provided a use of the disclosed method and a device for charging an array of micro-capillaries.

Abstract: A device comprising: a capillary array of bundled micro-capillary wells; said bundle arranged into a close packed arrangement; a first end of said array forming a sample receiving surface; wherein said device is arranged to draw said sample into said capillary array through capillary action, so as to divide the sample into a plurality of sub-reactions in said wells.