Volterra equations which model explosion in a diffusive medium (Q1325743)

This paper deals with a class of nonlinear Volterra integral equations \[ u(t) = \int^ t_{t_ 0} k(t - s) G \bigl[ u(s),s \bigr] ds, \quad t \geq t_ 0 \tag{1} \] where the nonlinearity has the form \(G[u(t),t]= r(t)\) \(g[u(t) + h(t)]\). The given nontrivial functions \(r(t)\) and \(h(t)\) are allowed to enhance the explosive behavior by being nondecreasing. The properties of the solution of equation (1) are studied. For instance it is proved that any continuous and differentiable function of (1) is positive and increasing for \(t>t_ 0\). The basic results provide criteria involving the kernel and the nonlinearity of the solution to experience blow up. Supporting examples from solid combustion and shear band formation are provided.