We propose a simple technique to measure particle temperatures in a particle generating counterflow flame. The silica particle temperature was derived from flame light emission measurements. This technique allows the non-intrusive measurement of particle temperatures over 2000 K. In addition, the OH concentration distribution in the hydrogen-oxygen flame was estimated from flame emission spectra in the ultraviolet region. A numerical model of the combustion processes, which included the reactions of SiCl4 leading to the formation of silica particles. verified that the measured particle temperatures and OH concentration were close to the theoretical values. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.