Amudha, A.Nagaraja, H.S.Shashikala, H.D.2026-02-052021Physica B: Condensed Matter, 2021, 602, , pp. -9214526https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physb.2020.412409https://idr.nitk.ac.in/handle/123456789/23370The hydrophobic ceramic–metal composites with enhanced mechanical properties will have longer durability because of the embedded liquid-repellent properties, with low water and salt absorption. In this work, the 25%NiCr-75%Cr<inf>2</inf>C<inf>3</inf> cermet powder has been coated on low carbon steel substrate, using High Velocity Oxy-fuel thermal spray technique. The SEM is employed to analyse the morphological characterization of the coating. The mechanical properties of the 25%NiCr-75%Cr<inf>2</inf>C<inf>3</inf> coating is evaluated using the Vickers micro-indentation technique. The micro-hardness, fracture toughness and brittleness index of the coatings are obtained. Also, the wetting property of the coating in 3.5% NaCl salt solution is investigated using the contact angle measured by sessile drop method. The contact angle of the coating is observed to be hydrophobic in nature with a contact angle of 98.14?. Thus, 25%NiCr-75%Cr<inf>2</inf>C<inf>3</inf> hydrophobic coatings helps in the improvement of brittleness, fracture toughness, and the microhardness. © 2020 Elsevier B.V.BrittlenessCermetsContact angleDurabilityFracture mechanicsFracture toughnessFuelsHVOF thermal sprayingHydrophobicityIndentationMicrohardnessPlasticitySodium chlorideSprayed coatingsWater absorptionWettingBrittleness indexHigh velocity oxy fuelHydrophobic coatingsMicro-indentation techniqueMorphological characterizationSessile drop methodThermal spray techniquesWetting propertyLow carbon steel