Multiphase microstructures were obtained in the surface of monolithic alumina ceramic by laser-remelting and addition of hafnium oxide (HfO 2 ), tungsten (W), or a mixture of zirconium oxide (ZrO 2 ), tungsten carbide (WC) and titanium nitride (TiN). Properties and tribological behaviour of different second phases of the multiphase Al 2 O 3 ceramics were investigated on the micro-/nanoscale in contact with Si-tips by using scanning probe microscopy. From the microtribological results concerning friction coefficient, jump-in force, and pull-off force as function of rel. humidity of the surrounding air, conclusions were derived about the effects of the different phases of the ceramics. A strong effect on the interaction between the Si-cantilever tip and the phases was caused owing to soft surface films.