Microplates based on liquid bridges between glass rods

► Novel microplating using liquid bridge between two glass rods is described. ► Experimental investigations of liquid filling characteristics show conformance to theoretical notions. ► Regions of minimal uncertainty in the cross-sectional area of the liquid body from variations in contact angle found. ► Cyclical translation of the rods, causing rupture and reattachment of the liquid bridge, engenders good mixing. ► Strong linear trends found in fluorescence signals using standard and optical fiber excitation illumination.