in one embodiment , a method of modifying a surface of a membrane includes exposing the surface to an impinging atmospheric pressure plasma source to produce an activated surface , and exposing the activated surface to a solution including a vinyl monomer . in another embodiment , a method of manufacturing a desalination membrane includes treating a surface of the membrane with an impinging atmospheric plasma source for an optimal period of time and rf power , and exposing the surface to an aqueous solution containing a vinyl monomer . in another embodiment , an apparatus includes a membrane having a surface , and polymer chains terminally grafted onto the surface of the membrane .