Microscale biosampling for open capillary liquid chromatography

Conventional means of sample introduction are generally not compatible with open capillary liquid chromatography (OCLC). Two new methods of sample introduction into capillary columns are described with which biological fluids can be directly injected into an OCLC column. This assures a close correlation between the concentration of the analyte in the living system and that of the extracted (in this case injected) sample.

This thesis contains descriptions of the construction and use of these biological sampling devices used in both injection techniques, as well as optimization procedures followed to determine how they could be used to their full est potential. Reproducibility results and test procedures are also included.

A chromatographic system is also described which is well suited for the types of analysis that would be encountered when using these injection techniques for bioanalysis. This system, which involves the use of dynamically modified stationary phases with OCLC columns, shows particular promise for the separation of sample components of biological origin.