US Patent 7938961 Capillary loop with a built-in retaining frit

Disclosed herein are an apparatus and method for effectuating increased chromatographic efficiency in a capillary column by employing a retaining frit disposed within an analytical capillary. By disposing the retaining frit within the analytic capillary, the void volume is significantly minimized. The columns and methods described herein produce a simplified analytical capillary and retaining frit apparatus that provides greater chromatographic efficiency. Additionally, the column of the instant invention maintains chromatographic fidelity by reducing the transfer diameter as well as facilitating fluidic connections in situ.