Inverse chromatography was applied to evaluate interaction parameters for polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and CaCO3, these parameters being based on retention volumes of proton-donor, -acceptor, and neutral vapors. The acid/base characteristics of CaCO3 were controllably altered by exposing the particulate to microwave plasmas sustained by acidic and basic vapors. It was shown that the ease-of-dispersion of fillers in the polymer matrixes related with the acid–base interaction balance in the polymer-filler pair, and varied widely with the surface treatment given to the filler. Mechanical properties at large deformation of the filled polymers and their durability also were shown to depend on surface interactions. Optimization of properties in PVC compounds was favored when strong acid-base interactions could take place with the plasma-modified filler. In the case of PE, properties were superior when unmodified filler was used; imparting strongly acidic or basic surface properties to the filler diminished its “compatibility” and usefulness with this nonpolar matrix.