The recent progress in solution combustion synthesis (SCS)-based preparation approaches in the synthesis of solid catalysts is discussed. This integrated overview includes not only the current understanding of the SCS chemistry and catalyst properties but also catalyst applications. SCS-based methods have had a variety of applications in heterogeneous catalysis including oxidation reactions, exhaust emission control, hydrogenation reactions, hydrogen production, and photocatalytic processes. The effects of using the fuel as chelating agent and reducing agent for the production of nanosized catalysts are also presented. Finally, the future of this important topic is discussed. (c) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.