This invention relates to a process for producing porous and composite
materials comprising steps of: freezing a complex containing at least one
calcium salt selected from calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, and
hydroxyapatite and collagen, at least a part of which is gelatinized; and
then lyophilizing the resultant. The porous and composite materials
obtained by the method of the present invention have large pore
diameters, high porosities, and adequate mechanical strengths and
biodegradability. Thus, they are suitable for implants such as bone
fillers, drug carriers for sustained-release, and the like.