Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) have the characteristics of low density, high temperature resistance, oxidation resistance and excellent mechanical performance, which can partially replace superalloys and be used as hot-end components for aircraft engines. However, CMCs are confronted with corrosion from media such as water vapor during long-term service, which seriously affects their performance and stability. Environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) are important materials used in the hot-end components of aircraft engines, which can isolate corrosive media from CMCs and protect the substrate. The application background, materials selection requirements, development history, and preparation process of EBCs were briefly introduced, and the research progress of the water vapor corrosion behaviors and mechanisms of rareearth silicates EBCs were focused on. The failure reasons of rare-earth silicates EBCs during service were also elaborated. In response to the current problems of EBCs, improvement advices have been proposed, which have reference significance for the development of high-performance EBCs.