Toughening mechanisms and microstructure of Al2O3-TiC-Co composites

► We fabricated cobalt-coated Al2O3-TiC composites with higher fracture toughness and bending strength. ► The toughening mechanisms and microstructure of composites containing both intragranular and intergranular TiC grains were obtained. ► Grain/subgrain refinement, dislocation activities, and dispersion strengthening mainly account for the toughening mechanisms.