Abstract: A surface-combustion radiant burner comprising a frame 1 of impermeable material supporting a porous element 2 permeable to gas and conduit means 7 to conduct a combustible gas mixture into a gas distributing space 5 enclosed by the frame 1 and the porous element 2, the porous element 2 being formed of metal particles of an alloy containing iron, chromium and aluminum and having the property of forming an alumina layer on heating in the presence of oxygen. And, a method of using such a burner for burning gas and air mixtures at high temperatures while minimizing nitrogen oxide production and burner corrosion.