Investment Logic of Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC) - CMC represents a revolutionary material for aerospace applications, addressing the bottlenecks in thrust-to-weight ratio and thermal efficiency of modern high-end equipment [2][5] - CMC can withstand temperatures up to 1650°C, significantly higher than traditional nickel-based superalloys, which have a temperature limit of around 1100°C [3][5] - The lightweight nature of CMC, with a density of only 1/3 to 1/4 that of high-temperature alloys, enhances engine thrust-to-weight ratios [4][5] - CMC exhibits superior creep and fatigue resistance in extreme environments, extending the lifespan of components [5] Market Space and Driving Factors - The global CMC market is projected to reach approximately $14.4 billion by 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 10% [8] - Key driving factors include military aircraft engine upgrades and the increasing demand for high-power gas turbines [6][7] - The military aviation sector is expected to generate an average market size of about 5.54 billion yuan annually for CMC structural components over the next decade [11] - The civil aviation sector, particularly the domestic market for commercial aircraft engines, is projected to reach approximately 9.13 billion yuan annually over the next 20 years [11] Industry Chain Analysis and Investment Selection - The CMC industry chain consists of upstream, midstream, and downstream segments, each with varying investment values and risks [9] - Upstream focuses on core raw materials like continuous silicon carbide (SiC) fibers, which are critical and have high technical barriers [10] - Midstream involves the design and manufacturing of structural components, requiring advanced processing capabilities [14][15] - Downstream applications are primarily with engine manufacturers, where market entry is more challenging [16] Investment Strategy Recommendations - Prioritize investments in upstream core material companies and selectively invest in midstream firms with unique processes and strong academic-industry collaboration [17] - Ideal investment targets should possess stable mass production technology for second and third-generation SiC fibers, with annual capacities ranging from hundreds of kilograms to tons [13] - Companies should demonstrate advanced engineering capabilities and have established relationships with major manufacturers [20][21] Key Selection Criteria for CMC Projects - Evaluate the technical team and their background, focusing on their academic and industry experience [17][22] - Assess the technological advancement and maturity of the product, ensuring it has moved from concept to production [18][20] - Investigate the engineering and industrialization capabilities, which are crucial for realizing value [19][20] - Verify downstream validation and customer relationships, which serve as a market entry pass [23][30] - Examine intellectual property and barriers to entry, ensuring a robust competitive advantage [24][30] - Analyze shareholder structure and capital planning to ensure long-term viability [25][30] Conclusion and Outlook - The CMC sector exhibits high growth potential, strong barriers to entry, and significant driving forces, aligning with national strategic needs and industrial development directions [27] - The current timing presents a golden opportunity for investment, particularly in projects with strong ties to state-owned enterprises and established manufacturers [28][30]

Core Insights - The article highlights the rapid deployment of AI data center SOFC (Solid Oxide Fuel Cell) power supply projects, which are attracting major companies like Oracle and Intel due to their high efficiency, continuous operation, and modular construction [1] Group 1: Market Opportunity - SOFC currently has a penetration rate of only about 1.1% in the data center power market, indicating significant growth potential [1] - The average selling price of leading suppliers has decreased by 50%, approaching a critical point for large-scale commercialization [1] Group 2: Industry Structure - The SOFC industry chain is divided into three main segments: upstream materials, midstream components and stacks, and downstream system integration [1] - The company mentioned is the largest single-cell SOFC supplier in the European market, positioning itself strongly within the industry [1]