Abstract: Assay devices are disclosed comprising a base defining a cavity and an insert received in the cavity. The cavity has major surface and at least one sidewall, preferably surrounding the major surface. The insert comprises a first surface with a portion opposing the major surface of the cavity. A space is provided between the portion of the first surface and the major surface for the receipt of a fluid sample. The space has an entrance defined by the first surface of the insert and the major surface. The insert also comprises a second surface opposing the first surface and having an input portion for the application of a fluid sample. The input portion is in fluid communication with the entrance to the space, such that a fluid sample applied to the input portion passes to the entrance to the space and into the space. At least one or more passages is preferably defined through the insert, for passage of the fluid sample through the insert, to the entrance to the space.

Abstract: A device and method for separating a fluid component from a non-fluid component of a sample comprises a plurality of microspheres disposed in abutting relation and forming therebetween a plurality of capillary channels, whereby when the microspheres are disposed in fluid communication with a sample the fluid component is separated from the non-fluid component by capillary flow of the fluid component through the capillary channels formed by the interstitial spacing between abutting microspheres.