Influence of dielectric barrier discharge atmosphere on polylactic acid (PLA) surface modification

► A helium DBD results in nitrogen incorporation, while an air DBD leads to oxygen incorporation. ► The addition of a small amount of air to the helium DBD strongly hinders the nitrogen incorporation. ► When more oxygen is incorporated than nitrogen, the lowest contact angle value is 59°. ► When mostly nitrogen is incorporated, the PLA wettability becomes higher.