The paper presents the results of investigations on particulate ceramic composites with the tetragonal zirconia polycrystalline (TZP) matrix. The WC, CrxCy and TiC particles were used as additives. The possibility of a chemical reaction in these systems was taken into account. Stresses caused by coefficient of thermal expansion mismatch of composite constituents were estimated. Phase composition and microstructure of the composite constituents were estimated. Phase composition and microstructure of the composites were described. Mechanical properties of the composites were measured and compared.