10. A method for fabricating a filter cartridge comprising:
a) applying a hydrophilic polymeric surface treatment to opposed end surface regions of filter element roll stock;
b) curing said hydrophilic polymeric surface treatment to said opposed end surface regions, such that said polymeric surface treatment undergoes cross linking and chemically links to the surface of the filter element roll stock in said opposed end surface regions;
c) forming a cylindrical filter element using said filter element roll stock, said filter element defining an outer periphery, an inner periphery and opposed end surfaces with said cured hydrophilic polymeric surface treatment positioned at said opposed end surfaces;
d) bonding polypropylene end caps to said opposed end surfaces of said cylindrical filter element; and
e) integrity testing said filter element in water.