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In this research, the microstructure and optical behaviour of a novel Al 2 O 3 -Ag composite coating have been investigated. The composite films were synthesised by the addition of silver nanoparticles into the anodizing electrolyte solution with the concentration of 100-1500 mg per 600 mL. SEM, EDS, XRD and Raman tests were employed to study the microstructure of the coatings. The optical properties were also characterized by FTIR and UV-Vis experiments. The results showed that the average pore diameter was increased by the co-deposition of silver nanoparticles into the alumina matrix from about 11 to 41 nm. Furthermore, silver nanoparticles could improve the optical properties of the anodic film, whereas the composite coating showed the higher absorption and emission associated with the ratio of α/ε ∼ 1.