ZrO 2+SiC particles reinforced MoSi 2 matrix composites by hot pressing have been studied. Through observation of the microstructure of MoSi 2 and the measurement of bending strength, microhardness and fracture toughness, the strengthening\|toughening mechanism of this materials is revealed. It is shown that the strengthening mechanism of the composites is the effect of dispersion strengthening and grain refining, and the toughening mechanism is a synthetic effect in terms of grain refining, microcrack f...