Patent ID: 7582472

Claim:
A method of partitioning a liquefied sample for determining an amount of microorganisms in a liquefied sample comprising: providing a device including: a bottom member having at least one discrete reaction compartment; a sample receiving well disposed in the bottom member; a top member disposed adjacent the bottom member; at least one channel member at least partially defined by at least one of the top and bottom members, each channel member having a first end portion in direct fluid communication with the sample receiving well and a second end portion in direct fluid communication with a discrete reaction compartment; an overflow well in direct fluid communication with the discrete reaction compartment; and a vent opening; introducing a portion of the liquefied sample to the sample receiving well, whereby capillary action assists in causing a portion of the liquefied sample to travel from the first end portion to the second end portion of the at least one channel member, wherein the liquefied sample is subsequently partitioned into the discrete reaction compartment and at least a portion of the liquefied sample is caused to remain in the reaction compartment; and wherein excess liquefied sample is caused to be deposited in the overflow well; and analyzing microbial concentrations in the liquefied sample.