Shaped abrasive particles and method of making same

Process for producing abrasive particles having a specified shape and abrasive articles containing abrasive particles having a specified shape. The method of making such an abrasive particle comprises the steps; (a) providing a dispersion containing particles to a precursor of alpha alumina, preferably particles of alpha alumina monohydrate, in a liquid, the liquid comprising a volatile component; (b) providing a mold having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the first surface having an opening into a mold cavity having a specified shape; (c) introducing the dispersion into the mold cavity; (d) removing a sufficient portion of the volatile component of the liquid from the dispersion while the dispersion is in the mold cavity to form a precursor to an abrasive particle which has approximately the same shape as the shape of the recess in the mold cavity; (e) removing the precursor of the abrasive particle from the recess in the mold; (f) calcining the removed precursor to the abrasive particle; and (g) sintering the calcined precursor to form the desired abrasive particle.