Mullite (3Al2O3·2SiO2) of stoichiometric composition was prepared by mixing boehmite sol and silica dispersion and gelling at a pH of 3. Complete mullitization takes place at or above 1300°C. Ultrafine mullite powder prepared by calcining gel at 1400°C and attrition milling could be sintered to>98% (theoretical density) at 1650°C for 1.5 h. The flexural strength of the sintered body at room temperature was 405 MPa and 350 MPa at 1300°C. Only traces of a secondary phase were observed along the grain boun