A temperature/reaction management system comprises a reformer system (86) and a mat material (80) fluidly coupled to a portion of the inlet (82) of the reforming zone of the reformer system (86). An inert material (92) and/or flame arrestor (90) can optionally be positioned before the mat material (80) to filter particulate matter, and lower the temperature of the fuel, respectively. A method for managing the temperature and reaction of fuel in an energy conversion device comprises dispensing an air/fuel mixture through a mat material (80) disposed against an inlet (82) of a reformer system (86). The air/fuel mixture is dispensed through a reflective surface (88) of the mat material (80) to maintain a first temperature that is less than a second temperature necessary for a gas phase reaction to occur. The mat material (80) inhibits the propagation of a flame into the reformer system (86), and allows fuel to enter the reformer system (86).