Al2O3-WC composite powder was synthesized by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis using Al powder as a reducing agent. WC, W2C and Al2O3 were concurrently formed in WO3-Al-C system. It was found that the complete reaction was achieved with excessive addition of carbon and appropriate processing parameters such as degree of dilution, particle size of aluminum, pellet compaction pressure and carbon source. The final product which was leached by 50% 1 : 4 HNO3 + HF diluted solution was consisted of Al2O3-55wt% WC having 2-3 mu m of mean particle size.