Oil filters media is generally constructed of a mixture of polyamide (nylon) and PET fibers. The filter needs to be replaced at regular intervals to avoid clogging of the filter, which could lead to engine damage. Clogged filters also result in poor engine performance and increased fuel consumption.

Oleophobic (or oil-resistant) surfaces in the filter matrix prolong the lifetime of the oil filter by reducing oil build-up in the filter. The Aurora low-pressure plasma technique is particularly well suited to depositing an oleophobic coating since it penetrates deep into crevices in the matrix of the filter media.