A mathematical model was developed and numerical modeling of a heat transfer process in a set of plane-parallel plates was performed. Basic conditions were defined, at which a non-stationary process of heat transfer proceeds as dissipating heat waves. The influence of chemical reaction (the endothermic processes of cyclic hydrocarbons dehydrogenation, conversion of methane and decomposition of ammonia) on the wave mode of heat distribution in the catalyst unit was investigated. The optimal values of some parameters influencing the process of heat transfer were defined. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.