Wavefronts in time-delayed reaction-diffusion systems. Theory and comparison to experiment

Abstract

We review the recent theoretical progress in the formulation and solution of the front speed problem for time-delayed reaction-diffusion systems. Most of the review is focused on hyperbolic equations. They have been widely used in recent years, because they allow for analytical solutions and yield a realistic description of some relevant phenomena. The theoretical methods are applied to a range of applications, including population dynamics, forest fire models, bistable systems and combustion wavefronts. We also present a detailed account of successful predictions of the models, as assessed by comparison to experimental data for some biophysical systems, without making use of any free parameters. Areas where the work reviewed may contribute to future progress are discussed.