Fine-rained alumina was obtained in 2 min by a new densification method based on self-propagating High-temperature Synthesis Plus Quick Pressing (SHS/QP). The sample was densified to more than 99% of theoretical density under I large mechanical pressure (100 MP) and a fast heating rate (1600 "C/min). Compared with the alumina sample obtained by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at lower heating rates (100 or 500 degrees C/min), almost no grain growth was found ill the sample obtained in this work. The microstructure and mechanical properties were Studied. Hardness value of 18.6 +/- 0.4 GPa and fracture resistance value of 3.4 +/- 0.3 MPa m(1/2) were measured for fine-grained alumina of this work. The densification mechanism was discussed. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved,