The present work deals with the analysis of low-environmental-impact premixed metal fiber burners (FeCrAlloy fiber mat), with special reference to the optimization of the perovskite-based catalysts to be deposited over them. New catalytic burners based on a LaMnO3/ZrO2 catalyst were developed. After a preliminary investigation, the optimal operating conditions for the preparation of LaMnO3 catalysts via solution combustion synthesis (SCS) were pointed out. The most promising catalyst was then selected over a wide range of formulations exploiting a number of structural promoters. An optimal catalyst deposition technique was then developed for the preparation of premixed catalytic metal burners, which were tested on a pilot combustion chamber. The results obtained on the pilot plant showed a good reduction of pollutant emissions and better performances compared with the non-catalytic counterpart, especially as far as CO emissions are concerned. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.