Multi-layer composites consisting of silicon nitride, silicon nitride-silicon carbide and boron nitride-alumina layers were prepared fly stacking the corresponding ceramic tapes. The composites demonstrated self-diagnostic capability and non-catastrophic failure behavior. The composites consisting of many thin layers exhibited high strength and stepwise increase of the electrical resistance during the flexure test. The strength of the composite with too thick silicon nitride layers was low and the electrical resistance was abruptly increased to the detection limit of the digital multi-meter during the test. An extensive crack branching was observed in the weak (BN + Al$_2$O$_3$)layer.