Materials research in China: Successes and problems

What is known in the West about materials research in China? In an introduc tory essay to this special issue, the guest editors sketch past events that have affected scientific research in China, in particular during the twent ieth century, and outline the current situation of researchers there. Recen t improvements are noted and confidence is expressed that these will contin ue, Finally, the editors hope that this special issue will encourage more w estern materials scientists to interact and collaborate with their colleagu es in China.