Characterization of active screen plasma modified polyurethane surfaces

► Polyurethane was surface modified by active screen plasma modification technique. ► PU surface was characterized by AFM, SEM, XPS, and FTIR. ► Surface modification results in transformation of ester groups into new OH groups. ► Surface topography alters from a closed cell structure to a porous open structure. ► Wettability of the polyurethane surface is effectively modified.