Two-phase composites consisting of (1 - x) Al2O3 and xTi(3)SiC(2) (x = 0 - 1) were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). Sintered densities larger than 98% of theoretical density were achieved when the specimens were sintered at 1300degreesC for 5 min (in vacuum, at pressure 30 MPa). When content of Ti3SiC2 increased up to 30 wt%, composites were found to be machinable - they could be drilled easily using conventional Fe-Mo-W drills or gravers. The mechanical properties of the (1 - x) Al2O3-xTi(3)SiC(2) composites were evaluated. The bending strength, Vickers hardness of the specimens had the following ranges: 428 +/- 10.2 (x = 0) to 673 +/- 15.4 Mpa (x = 1) ( bending strength at room temperature); 19.9 (x = 0) to 4.0 GPa ( x = 1) ( Vickers hardness). (C) 2004 Kluwer Academic Publishers.