Cell Repellent Coatings Developed by an Open Air Atmospheric Pressure Non-Equilibrium Argon Plasma Jet for Biomedical Applications

A custom made non-equilibrium atmospheric pressure argon plasma jet was developed for the deposition of PEG like coatings in open-air for cell repellent applications. OES and electrical measurements were performed to characterize the discharge. The emission of the N-2 (C-u(3)-B-g(3)) was followed in order to minimize the air entry in the plasma. Surface analyses were carried out on ap-DEG coatings and the best retention of COC was obtained under mild plasma conditions. The ap-DEG coatings were compared with typical LP deposited PEG like coatings. Less retention of COC and therefore less cell repellent properties were observed for ap-DEG coatings as compared to those deposited at low pressure.