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The thermomechanical behavior of metal-ceramic composites with interpenetrating networks is dominated by the ceramic matrix, i.e. good wear and oxidation resistance as well as high-temperature strength, while the metal phase can improve the fracture toughness [1, 2]. A novel pressureless reaction sintering process was presented for the fabrication of alumina-aluminide alloys (3A) [3–6]. Densification was achieved by inert-atmosphere heat-treatment of compacts prepared from high-intensity milled mixtures of metal oxide (MeaOb) and aluminum powders. The process takes advantage of the higher oxygen affinity of aluminum compared to other metals, described by the general reaction scheme