A monolithic HPLC column, or monolithic column, is a column used in high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).  The internal structure of the monolithic column is created in such a way that many channels form inside the column.  The material inside the column which separates the channels can be porous and functionalized.  In contrast, most HPLC configurations use particulate packed columns; in these configurations, tiny beads of an inert substance, typically a modified silica, are used inside the column. Monolithic columns can be broken down into two categories, silica-based and polymer-based monoliths. Silica-based monoliths are known for their efficiency in separating smaller molecules while, polymer-based are known for separating large protein molecules.