The common methods used to the surface modification of carbon nanotubes with low temperature plasma are presented in this paper, each with its merits and demerits. Then the different modification methods for the carbon nanotubes with low temperature plasma are described. After modification, there are increased content of oxygenic functional groups or addition of a large amount of new chemical groups on the surface of the carbon nanotubes. The analysis methods are discussed for the carbon nanotubes with or without processing, such as the water contact angle measuring technique for the hydrophilicity and hydrophobility, the spectrum analysis method for the chemical elements and groups, and the surface morphology with SEM and TEM. At last, the research progress in the application of the carbon nanotube modified with low temperature plasma in the fields of environmental protection and composition materials is reviewed. Furthermore, some current existing problems and the future development orientation are stated briefly.