Progression in manufacturing of functionally graded materials and impact of thermal treatment-A critical review

Functionally graded materials (FGMs) revealed an immense growth with world-wide demand. This paper details a critical review on the periodic transformation in FGM production technologies and influence of thermal treatment on the physical, structural and manufacturing characteristics of FGMs. Popular alloys and ceramics utilized for FGM manufacturing are identified and classified based on their engineering applications of diverse fields. Evolution of fabrication techniques are correlated to the industrial requirements along with their merits and limitations. Advanced research outcomes of studies on FGM gradation control, coating precision, residual stress distribution, energy consumption, commercialization and environmental impacts are compared. Crosslinkage of product demands are correlated within the FGM designs to simulate desired gradation and geometries for specific complex applications. Detailing on impact of integrating advanced FGM development with emerging trends like nano-technology and additive manufacturing, provides an insight for industrialists and academic researchers on current FGM trends and potential future research gaps.