A novel composite material consisting of a highly durable Si-B-N-C ceramic matrix modified by carbonaceous structures on the surface is presented. Depending on the content of Ni dopand of the starting polymer, a catalyzed growth of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) of the bamboo-type or of carbon layers is observed. Due to the chemical resistance and thermal stability of both the ceramic support as well as of the carbonaceous surface layers, the material obtained has outstanding high-temperature properties and can be functionalized by metal particles deposited on the CNTs. Consequently, this material constitutes a unique backbone for catalysts. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.