We derive an asymptotic model for the propagation of a combustion wave thro
ugh a mixture of solid reactants in the presence of an inert diluent which
melts in the reaction zone. We show how melting affects the steady, adiabat
ic, planar flame speed and the structure of the combustion wave. We also in
vestigate the effect of melting on the linear stability of the steady, plan
ar solution. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.