The incorporation of inorganic fullerene-like nanoparticles into coating systems is considered an effective method to provide extra functionality and improve the specific properties of matrix coatings. In the present work, inorganic fullerene-like tungsten disulfide (IF-WS2) nanoparticles have been incorporated into Cr2O3 coatings via a modified aerosol-assisted chemical vapour deposition process (AACVD), for the purpose of reducing friction and improving wear resistance. The deposited nanocomposite coatings are characterized using a combination of X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Ball-on-flat testing has been carried out to evaluate the friction and wear properties of the IF-WS2/Cr2O3 nanocomposite coatings. The microstructure and tribological testing results show that the AACVD process is a promising method for the synthesis of nanocomposite coatings incorporating nanoparticles. (c) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.