Nano Si 3 N 4 composites with tailored microstructure were developed using fi ne ß-Si 3 N 4 powders. Their wear behaviour was investigated. Whereas pure Si 3 N 4 composites showed improved wear behaviour under dry rolling conditions with slip, TiN-reinforced nano Si 3 N 4 composites generate a self-lubricating behaviour under dry sliding conditions. After chemical treatment with hydrogen sulphide, the friction coeffi cient and wear rate was found to be signifi cantly decreased under dry sliding conditions. Additionally, the new composites possess higher fracture toughness than the pure nano Si 3 N 4 materials.