Diffusion bonding of sialon and 7.5-Cr Ferritic Steel (FS) in as-received and nitrided condition was studied. Decomposition of sialon and interdiffusion of elements between the sialon and the steel were observed. The interdiffusion of elements produced reaction layers at the joint. The steel moved into the decomposition part of the sialon and replaced the decomposed sialon in this part. Diffusion of silicon into the steel resulted in the silicon-diffusion layer. FeSi2 was formed in the reaction layer when Si in the decomposition part of the sialon reacted with Fe. The use of nitrided steel in the diffusion bonding had suppressed the formation of the FeSi2 in the layer. © (2011) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.