Abstract: A process for the liquid phase sintering of silicon carbide, comprising forming a shaped, consolidated powder body which, not allowing for binder, comprises a powder mixture containing at least 75 wt % silicon carbide and from 1 to 25 wt % (calculated as Al.sub.2 O.sub.3) of a powder comprising a source of aluminum selected from alumina, precursors for alumina and mixtures thereof. The body is heated in a non-oxidising atmosphere to a sintering temperature of from 1500.degree. C. to 2300.degree. C. to form a liquid phase and a resultant liquid phase sintered body. In said heating step, the body is heated in the presence of a source of magnesium which is distinct from the source of aluminum and comprises at least one of magnesia, precursors for magnesia, magnesium vapour and combinations thereof, whereby said liquid phase produces secondary oxide constituent.