The choice of polymers for various biomedical applications depends on their surface properties. All polymers do not possess the surface properties required for biomedical applications. Surface properties of the materials like surface free energy, hydrophilicity and surface morphology, which influence the cell-polymer interaction, decide the choice of the polymer. Radio frequency (RF) plasma offers a unique route for surface modification of polymers without affecting their bulk properties. This process results in a smooth, pinhole-free ultrathin film. Plasma treatment of polymers can render the material surface either hydrophilic or hydrophobic through the use of the respective plasma gases. It has found various applications in automobile, electronic, biomedical and chemical industries. In this article the properties and effects of RF plasma treatment of polymers are discussed with reference to their biomedical applications, such as in body implants, bioseparation, sterilization, biosensors, ophthalmology, etc.
展开▼
