The zeta potential and apparent viscosity measurements of 3Y-TZP, 12Ce-TZP and 3Y-TZP/12Ce-TZP suspensions, has allowed the slip casting conditions for the preparation of multilayer composites have been examined. The influence of heat treatment on the sintered density, microstructure and crystalline phase of multilayer composites was also studied. The isoelectric point of both 3Y-TZP and 12Ce-TZP suspensions was near pH 8 and that of 3Y-TZP/12Ce-TZP was at pH 8.6. The suspensions exhibited pseudoplastic flow, showing a decrease in viscosity with increasing shear stress. A small (0.3 wt%) addition of an organic deflocculant gave 3Y-TZP and 3Y-TZP/12Ce-TZP suspensions with 15 and 20 vol% solid contents an appropriate fluidity for slip casting, but an additional electrolyte was required to reduce viscosity in 12Ce-TZP. Dense (>98% of theoretical) multilayer composites with grain size of 0.3-2.2 mum were obtained after sintering at 1500degreesC.