Progress and prospects of functional gradient materials

Functional gradient material (FGM) is a kind of nonhomogeneous composite. According to the design concept of FGM, its composition and structure vary gradually and continuously from one material to another, and therefore its property and function vary gradually along the line of thickness. In this way, the unmatched factors of different materials can be overcome and advantages of both materials can be brought into full play. The concept and the development background of functional gradient materials are introduced. The research progress in preparation methods, property e-valuation and applications of FGM are discussed and the prospects of FGM are presented.