A microwave reactor constructed to produce a homogeneous heat distribution across the body of the microwave reactor subsequent exposure to microwave irradiation. The microwave reactor includes a body having an exterior wall transparent to microwave irradiation. A microwave sensitized element layer is adjacent the exterior wall and is comprised of a carbide mixture wherein the carbide mixture includes a carbide mixed with either a metal oxide, a ferrite or a nitride. The carbide mixture is in granular form wherein the carbide has a larger particle size than the other component. The microwave sensitized element layer further includes a metal layer that extends the length thereof. The metal layer is positioned in various arrangements within or adjacent to the carbide mixture. The body further includes an inner layer adjacent to the microwave sensitized layer opposite the exterior wall. The inner layer is transparent to microwave irradiation.