Two typical layered ternary compounds. Ti3SiC2 and Ti3AlC2, were joined directly by solid-state diffusion bonding method. By various bonding tests at 1100-1300 degrees C for 30-120 min under 10-30 MPa, and characterizing the microstructure and diffusion reactive phases of the joints by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). the optimal condition for direct joining of Ti3SiC2 and Ti3AlC2 was obtained. Strong joints of Ti3SiC2/Ti3AlC2 can be achieved via diffusion bonding, which is attributed to remarkable interdiffusion of Si and Al at the joint interface. The shear strength of the Ti3SiC2/Ti3AlC2 joints was determined. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.