The WC-12%Co powders with different contents of CeO2 (0.1-2 wt.%) were deposited on ductile iron by electric contact surface strengthening. The coatings with and without CeO2 were examined and tested for microstructural characteristic, phase structure, microhardness and thermal shock resistance. The comparison concluded that the proper addition of CeO2 could refine the microstructure of coatings and increase the microhardness of the coatings. By the small amount addition of cerium oxide (0.5 wt.%), the solid solution strengthening effect and grain boundaries strengthening effect would delay the time of crack formation and propagation in the coatings and enhance the thermal shock performance. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.