AbstractGrey cast iron containing 3.39% C, 2.76% Si, 0.37% Mn, 0.05 %, P and 0.005 % S, with different shape of graphite was covered with Mo and Ti nitrides by cathodic are plasma deposition method at 400°C. Incorporation of C from the substrate caused the formation of molybdenum carbide. Formation of diffused interphase layer due to incorporation of Mo into the substrate caused increase in the coating adhesion.Electrochemical measurements showed that H3PO4 and H2SO4 solutions penetrated to substrate through flaws in coatings, mainly occurred at the graphite particles. The local corrosion degradation of material was accompanied by hydrogen evolution and formation of microcracks. In the case of coated vermicular cast iron merging of microcracks led to falling off the pieces of coated material. The Mo containing coatings exhibited lower susceptibility to crack formation but higher susceptibility to environmental degradation than the Ti containing coatings. The highest protection in acid solutions provided the complex (Mo,Ti)N coating.