Abstract
Based on the inventions of continuous ceramic fibers, such as C, SiC, $Al_2O_3$ etc., by polymer precursor driven methods, there have been many efforts to fabricate ceramic continuous fiber reinforced composite materials with metals and ceramics matrices. The main purpose of the R & D efforts has been to produce materials for severe environments, including advanced energy systems, advanced transportation systems. The efforts have been started from the R & D of metal matrix composite materials and now the strong emphasis on ceramic matrix composites R & D can be recognized. This paper provides a brief review about the national efforts to establish advanced composite materials for future industries starting from mid 70s. C/Al and SiC/Al are the typical examples to be applied transportation systems and energy systems. The excellences in specific strength and overall mechanical properties, the excellences in environmental resistance make those materials as potential materials for advanced ocean construction and marine transportation systems. About the recent progress in ceramic fiber reinforced ceramic composites, advanced SiC/SiC composites including NITE-SiC/SiC will be introduced and the present status will be introduced.