Carbon fiber reinforced epoxy resin matrix composites with light weight and high strength are widely used in aerospace, transportation, energy and other fields. The composition and structure of the interface are the main factors affecting the physical and chemical properties of composites. Surface modification of carbon fiber is one of the most effective ways to enhance the interfacial properties and mechanical properties of carbon fiber composites. In recent years, it's been found that porous materials with large specific surface area and diverse structures can improve the surface energy and surface roughness of carbon fibers and improve the interfacial properties of composites. This paper briefly introduces the modification of carbon fiber with different kinds of porous materials in recent years, and summarizes the interfacial strengthening effect of carbon fiber composites, which provides reference significance for the future research of porous materials reinforced carbon fiber composites.