described is a process for the homogeneous surface activation of a material in web form , by means of plasma - treatment . the material in web form is selected from metallic materials in web form having a thickness of less than 100 μm , polymeric materials in web form and combinations thereof . the process involves treating homogeneously at least a portion of the surface of the material in web form , which is moved over at least one pair of rolls , with an atmospheric plasma , optionally in the presence of a process gas and / or a process aerosol . the atmospheric plasma is generated by an indirect plasmatron .