Using monolithic alumina ceramics as the reference, the thermal shock behavior of the hot-pressed alumina matrix ceramics with 3 mol% neodymium titanate was investigated. The thermal shock resistance of the materials was evaluated by water quenching and a subsequent three-point bending test to determine the flexural strength degradation. The hot-pressed composite exhibited a temperature differential of the thermal shock resistance 120degreesC higher than the monolith, mainly because of significantly improved fracture toughness.