The flame synthesis of titania particles with special properties for the photooxidation of organic contaminants in water is investigated. Powders with high specific surface area (>100 m(2)/g) and high anatase content were produced in a hydrocarbon flame reactor at various conditions. These powders were used for the photodegradation of phenol in non-aerated aqueous solutions under UV-irradiation. The reaction followed first order kinetics and the photodestruction rates of these powders were comparable with or better than those of commercially available titania powders.