Bismuth oxide nanostructured particles were made via the flame spray pyrolysis (FSP) of bismuth nitrate that had been dissolved in a solution of ethanol/nitric acid or in acetic acid. These self-sustaining spray flames produced tetragonal beta-Bi2O3. The use of ethanol/nitric acid solutions resulted in a mixture of hollow, shell-like, and solid nanograined particles. The particle homogeneity was improved as the content of acetic acid in the precursor solution increased. Solid bismuth oxide nanoparticles were prepared consistent with percolation theory, accounting for the specific volume of the product and the precursor. Using pure acetic acid as the solvent, the effect of FSP variables on spray flame and product powder characteristics was investigated. The specific surface area of the Bi2O3 particles could be controlled over a range of 20-80 m(2)/g by the liquid feed and oxygen gas flow rates for powder production rates of 6-46 g/h.