One-dimensional mathematical modeling was used to describe the self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) process for preparing TiAl3 and Ni3Al intermetallics. The kinetic parameters (activation energies and pre-exponential factors) for the two compounds were obtained by matching experimental measurement and the numerical solution. The results thus obtained were compared with rate parameters obtained using different methods. The activation energy was 483 and 283 kJ mol(-1) for the formation of TiAl3 and Ni3Al, respectively. The temperature profiles calculated using the mathematical model were compared with experimental measurements for both aluminides which indicated reasonable agreement. Fine particle size and moderate preheating increase the SHS rates.