Nacre-like alumina composites reinforced by zirconia particles

•Nacre-like composites were prepared with a simple process, including zirconia particles in monoclinic or in tetragonal phase.•A R-curve effect is noted for all samples, mainly driven by crack deflection along the platelet interfaces.•The addition of tetragonal zirconia increases the strength and limits the growth of alumina grains during sintering.•Composites with tetragonal zirconia and no glass phase are potential candidates for high temperature applications.