The use of beta-spodumene (Li2O . Al2O3 . 4SiO(2)) has been investigated as a liquid-phase sintering aid for the densification of mullite processed from fumed silica and ESP (alumina) dust. XRD, DTA, SEM and Vickers indentation were used to characterize the effect of spodumene on the phase relations, sintering behaviour, microstructure and mechanical properties of mullite. The results show that the presence of spodumene significantly reduces the porosity, improves the sintering behaviour and enhances the formation of mullite at 1550 degrees C. Spodumene-modified mullite ceramics also have better physical and mechanical properties.