Analysis devices

Abstract

An analytical device 10 comprising a sample reception zone 130, a fluid storage chamber 120 in fluid communication with the sample reception zone, an analysis zone 150 in fluid communication with the sample reception zone and a drive arrangement 200 which when activated is configured to drive fluid stored in the fluid storage chamber so that it passes through the sample reception zone to the analysis zone. The drive arrangement may be the displacement of gas from the sample reception zone by the insertion of a sample, ideally on a swab. Alternatively, the drive arrangement is a pre-compressed elastic element such as a spring-loaded plunger or a gas generated by the reaction of a stored reactive fluid contacting a reactive element. The device may comprise fluid control elements or valves comprising a breakable or rupturable seal which has a resistive wire running through such that the application of a current causes the seal to melt or shrink. The analysis zone may comprise multiple analysis chambers in parallel, each having a vent which ensure that a sample is equally divided between the chambers. [Use fig 1]