A novel method to prepare high performance copper clad laminates (CCLs) was developed by using bismaleirnide/aluminum borate (Al18B4O33) whisker hybrid as the matrix. The typical important properties such as thermal, mechanical, and dielectric properties of CCLs were investigated in detail. Results show that the incorporation of surface treated Al18B4O33 whiskers with suitable concentration can noticeably increase the flexural strength and modulus, interlayer shear strength, the heat distortion temperature, as well as dielectric properties of the CCLs. Intensive studies show that the improved concrete strength of the matrix and that in the direction of thickness of CCLs are contributed to the noticeable improvement of mechanical properties of CCLs by using the hybrid matrix. (c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.