High density composites with the compositions of ZrO2(2Y):TiN = 40:60 and 70:30 mol % have been fabricated by hot isostatic pressing for 2 h at 1500 degrees C and 196 MPa. The electrical resistivities (rho) of the two composites are very different; showing metallic behaviour in the first case and insulating behaviour in the latter case. These properties are highly dependent on the sample texture. Laminated materials with compositions of ZrO2(2Y)/TiN = (40:60)/(70:30)/(40:60) mol % have been prepared by hot isostatic pressing. The electrical resistivities in the perpendicular and parallel to the interface directions have been determined to be rho(perpendicular to) approximate to 1 x 10(9) and p(parallel to) approximate to 1 x 10(-6) Omega m, respectively. A residual stress of as much as approximate to 150 MPa is induced in the interfaces. The fracture tough ness is greatly affected by the residual stress.