Electrospray assisted capillary device for processing ultra low-volume samples

A method for processing an ultra low-volume sample, comprising the steps of:

• providing spray-capillary device, comprising:
• (1) a spray capillary, wherein, the spray capillary comprises an inlet end having a non-porous tip, positioned to receive the ultra low-volume sample, and a tapered discharge end with a porous section, the spray capillary configured to contain the ultra low-volume sample, wherein the tapered discharge end is configured to exert an electric force, wherein upon receiving the electric force, the tapered discharge end is configured to discharge an electrospray, wherein upon discharge of the electrospray, a pressure differential is exerted on the spray capillary configured to contain the ultra low-volume sample;
• (2) a first upstream connector comprising a first branch, a second branch, a third branch, and an upstream lead conductor, wherein the spray capillary is positioned within the upstream connector, extending from the first branch through the second branch, wherein the non-porous tip of the inlet end of the spray capillary is positioned to receive the ultra low-volume sample and enter the inlet end, wherein the upstream lead conductor is positioned adjacent to the non-porous tip of the inlet end of the spray capillary, and wherein the third branch is configured to receive a gas;
• (3) a second downstream connector comprising a first branch, a second branch, a third branch, and a conductive interface, wherein the tapered discharge end of the spray capillary is inserted into the first branch of the downstream connector and exits out of the second branch of the downstream connector, wherein the third branch of the downstream connector is configured to receive a conductive substance that surrounds the porous section discharge end of the spray capillary, and wherein the conductive interface is configured to receive an electric signal;
• introducing the ultra low-volume sample into the inlet end of the spray capillary;
• injecting the conductive substance into the third branch of the downstream connector, wherein the conductive substance passes out of the second branch of the downstream connector;
• and
• applying the electric signal to the conductive interface of the downstream connector for forming the pressure differential between the inlet end of the spray capillary and the tapered discharge end of the spray capillary, thereby forming the electrospray, causing the ultra low-volume sample to be injected into the inlet end the spray capillary.