Plasma‐Modified PTFE for Biological Applications: Correlation between Protein‐Resistant Properties and Surface Characteristics

PTFE samples were treated by low‐pressure O 2 RF plasmas. The adsorption of BSA was used as a probe for the protein‐resistant properties. Exposure of PTFE to an O 2 plasma leads to an increase in chamber pressure. OES reveals the presence of CO, CO 2 and F in the gas phase, indicating a strong etching of the PTFE surface by the plasma. Furthermore, the high‐resolution C1s spectra show CF 3 , CF and CCF components. WCA as high as 160° were observed, indicating a super‐hydrophobic behavior. AFM images of surfaces treated at high plasma power showed an increase in roughness. Lower amounts of BSA adsorption were detected on high power, O 2 plasma‐modified PTFE samples compared to low power, oxygen plasma‐modified ones. magnified image