Abstract— Microstructure and mechanical properties of HP (Hot Pressed), HP/GP (Gas Pressed), and HP/HIP (Hot Isostatic Pressed)—Si3N4 are studied using scanning electron microscopy, bending tests and the indentation fracture method. The grain diameter distribution is analyzed to clarify the relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties; and also the bending strength and fracture toughness. It is shown that bending strength increases with decreasing grain diameter. The results also show that a Hall—Petch type of relationship is obtained between grain diameter and fracture strength. The fracture toughness shows a linear relationship with , where σF= bending strength, β= a proportionality factor and da= average grain diameter, and is closely related to the aspect ratio of Si3N4 grains. It is concluded, from the morphological analysis, that a microstructure composed of Si3N4 grains, with both a small grain diameter and a large aspect ratio, is effective in improving both the fracture strength and fracture toughness.