The present study has investigated the microstructural, tribological and mechanical properties of three coatings (Cr2O3, NiAl and Cr2O3–bond coating NiAl), obtained by atmospheric plasma spraying on medium carbon steel. More precisely, the effect of the bond coating (NiAl) on the properties of ceramic coating is investigated. The results showed that NiAl bond coating improved Cr2O3 adhesion with the substrate on the order of 25%. Furthermore, the application of NiAl bond coating enhanced the quality of Cr2O3 coating surface morphology (reducing the percentage of pores), increased the microhardness (on the order of ∼ 100 HV300) and improved the wear behaviour.
