The invention concerns a device comprising fluid elements arranged in a matrix configuration, the level of fluid in each element being controllable by means of an electric force. The apparatus and method stir the fluid and particulate mixture for a time during which the viscosity of the fluid changes such that during a first period of the stirring time substantially all the particulate remains suspended in the fluid and during a second period of the stirring time substantially all the particulate settles out of suspension in the fluid. The base fabric may be coupled to electrical terminals. The console further includes a helium mass spectrometer with a nitrogen purge supply, calibrated leak inputs, and a vacuum maintenance pump.