INTRODUCTION: The alumina-zirconia composites attracted a special attention for orthopaedic applications [1]. Their structure is highly dependent on the synthesis method and in the framework of the same method it depends on processing conditions like synthesis temperature, and parameters of the applied heat treatments. Morphological and structural properties influence both mechanical and biological response at the interface with these materials. Due to the very high melting temperature of the components, it is difficult to obtain monolithic Al2O3 -ZrO2 composites by classical melting method, and new techniques like spark plasma are used [2]. The sinter-ability of these composites is dependent on the powder processing route. The sol-gel route is often preferred in powder synthesis. This study is focused on structural properties of sol-gel derived powders and that of compact sintered composites. METHODS: Particles size distribution of as prepared and the calcined powders was obtained by laser diffraction analysis. The specific surface area and the porosity of powders were ebvaluated by BET method.