The simultaneous addition of 0.5 wt% Cr and Fe was found to enhance the densification of TIE,. The densities of specimens that were sintered for 2 h at 1800 degrees and 1900 degreesC were 97.6% and 98.8% of the theoretical value, respectively. The mechanical properties of the specimen sintered at 1800 degreesC, which had a strength of 506 MPa and a fracture toughness of 6.16 MPa.m(1/2), were much better than those observed in the specimen sintered at 1900 degreesC.