The synthesis feasibility of nanocrystalline AlN via a modified carbothermal reduction-nitridation route from a low-temperature combustion precursor containing alumina and carbon was studied in detail. The spotlight was focused on optimizing various process parameters such as ignition temperature, the amount of NH4NO3 as combustion aids, type of monose (glucose, starch and glucose) and calcinations temperature. The powders were characterized for specific surface area, XRD, TEM and DTA/TG thermal analysis. The results showed that nano-sized single-phase AIN was obtained regardless of the addition amount of NH4NO3, ignition temperature and the type of carbon source introduced in the precursor solution. The nitridation temperature employing an as-burned precursor was 1400-1500degreesC lower than that in the conventional CRN route (> 1600degreesC). (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.