Multicarbide reinforced metal matrix composite(MMC) layers on a ductile iron (QT600-3) were fabricated by laser surface alloying (LSA) using two types of laser: a 5 kW continuous wave (CW) CO2 laser and a 400 W pulsed Nd:YAG laser, respectively. The research indicated that LSA of the ductile iron with multicarbide reinforced MMC layers demonstrates sound alloying layers free of cracks and porosities. The microstructure, phase structure and wear properties of MMC layers were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), as well as dry sliding wear testing. The microstructure of the alloyed layer is composed of preeutectic austenite, ledeburite, spherical TiC, Cr7C3 and Cr23C6 with various morphologies. TiC particles are dispersed uniformly in the upper region of MMC layers. The average hardness of LSA layers by CO2 laser and pulsed Nd:YAG laser is 859 HV0.2 and 727 HV0.2, respectively. The dry sliding wear testing shows the wear resistance of ductile iron is significantly improved after LSA with multicarbide. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.