Abstract: A testing apparatus is described that contains a test sample and one or more reagents, or reaction solutions associated with chemical reactions and a resilient, compressible, porous material, and which is amenable to subsequent process or reaction steps or liquid transfer steps. A piece of sponge or foam rubber, which is compatible with the amplification reactions and amplification products, is introduced into the reaction vessel and absorbs the test sample and reagents, or reaction solutions associated with an amplification process, or amplification products thus, reducing their loss through aerosolation.

Abstract: A reaction vessel for a nucleic acid amplification reaction has a first chamber containing an amplification reagent mix, a second chamber containing an amplification enzyme, and a fluid channel or chamber connecting the first and second chambers together. A fluid sample is introduced into the first chamber. After a denaturation and primer annealing process has occurred in the first chamber, the fluid channel is opened to allow the solution of the reagent and fluid sample to flow into the second chamber. The second chamber is maintained at an optimal temperature for the amplification reaction.A station is described for processing test strips incorporating the reaction vessels. The station includes temperature and vacuum control subsystems to maintain proper temperatures in the reaction vessel and effectuate the transfer of the fluid from one chamber to the other in an automated fashion without human intervention.