Abnormal grain growth of rutile TiO2 induced by ZrSiO4

► Large rutile crystallites in prismatic habit form when anatase is sintered in the presence of ZrSiO4. ► This abnormal growth is not observed in the presence of Zr, Si or ZrO2 dopants. ► There exists a unique orientation relationship between ZrSiO4 and rutile TiO2. ► AGG phenomena were discussed in terms of various possible mechanisms. ► Cumulative effects of multiple factors may impart AGG of rutile in the studied systems.