Abstract: A method of performing multiple parallel reactions and comprising introducing a liquid into a space between first and second flexible sheets, the liquid containing one or more reagents, applying localised pressure across the sheets in order to form a multiplicity of liquid filled wells between the sheets such that neighbouring wells are not in liquid communication with one another, causing reactions to occur in respective wells, the reactions occurring substantially independently of one another, and determining reaction results for the respective wells.

Abstract: A cartridge can comprise a first elastomeric membrane and a second elastomeric membrane, and portions of the elastomeric membranes which are sealed to each other can circumscribe unsealed portions of the membranes. In a resting state, the unsealed portion of the first elastomeric membrane abuts or is proximate to the unsealed portion of the second elastomeric membrane. One or more reagents can be injected between the unsealed portions of the first and second elastomeric membranes to push the unsealed portions apart from each other in this region of the membranes. The unsealed portions can be sequentially pushed apart in downstream regions to form a channel between the elastomeric membranes. Positively displaced fluid pushes the unsealed membrane portions apart to a volume that conforms to the volume of the fluid to minimize or prevent dead volume in the channel and thus minimize or prevent air bubbles in the fluid.

Abstract: A cartridge can comprise a first elastomeric membrane and a second elastomeric membrane, and portions of the elastomeric membranes which are sealed to each other can circumscribe unsealed portions of the membranes. In a resting state, the unsealed portion of the first elastomeric membrane abuts or is proximate to the unsealed portion of the second elastomeric membrane. One or more reagents can be injected between the unsealed portions of the first and second elastomeric membranes to push the unsealed portions apart from each other in this region of the membranes. The unsealed portions can be sequentially pushed apart in downstream regions to form a channel between the elastomeric membranes. Positively displaced fluid pushes the unsealed membrane portions apart to a volume that conforms to the volume of the fluid to minimize or prevent dead volume in the channel and thus minimize or prevent air bubbles in the fluid.