This review provides a comprehensive overview of high-wear-resistant metal–ceramic surface engineering technologies based on Directed Energy Deposition (DED) for high-temperature industrial applications. In high-temperature processes such as continuous hot-dip coating, critical components (e.g., rollers and sleeves) are exposed to severe wear and chemical reactions, leading to rapid degradation and frequent replacement, which results in significant economic losses. This review focuses on the fundamental characteristics of DED processes and their advantages over conventional surface modification techniques such as HVOF, PVD/CVD, and arc-based methods. Particular attention is given to the process–structure–property relationships governing coating performance, including coating thickness, bonding characteristics, and high-temperature stability. Representative material systems, particularly WC-based metal–ceramic composites (e.g., Co–WC), are systematically discussed in terms of their wear resistance and applicability under severe operating conditions. Quantitative tribological performance metrics, including wear rate and friction coefficient, are also reviewed to provide a more rigorous understanding of coating performance. The analysis highlights that DED offers unique advantages in achieving thick coatings with strong metallurgical bonding and high applicability to repair and remanufacturing of large-scale components. In addition, recent advances in DED technologies, such as closed-loop control, self-regulating effects, and data-driven process optimization, are examined to highlight emerging trends in the field. The review also identifies current technical limitations and outlines future research directions, emphasizing the need for improved process control, defect mitigation, and integration of advanced monitoring techniques.
Cho et al. (Sun,) studied this question.