Al2O3-nanodiamond composite coatings with high durability and hydrophobicity prepared by aerosol deposition

► Al2O3-ND composite coatings were fabricated using an AD process at room temperature. ► Agglomerated ND in mixed powders led to a decrease of transmittance of the coatings. ► The Agglomeration of ND could be decreased by using attrition milling. ► As a result, the transmittance of the coatings was enhanced by nearly 80%. ► Moreover, the coatings had hydrophobic surface and good anti-wear property.