Functionally graded materials (FGMs) are new materials whose properties change
gradually in respect to their dimensions. This group of materials shows a
tremendous improvement of previously used composite materials. FGM consists
of two or more materials whose combination enables the achievement of
specified properties in accordance with the desired application. The article
gives an overview of different classifications, various fabrication methods
and applications of the FGMs. It could also provide insight and perspective
for researchers, university students and research and development teams
since it has brought together diverse aspects of FGMs. As mentioned in
section two, we took all FGMs fabrication methods under consideration,
giving the reader an insight into how to make a product while satisfying the
conditions of financial and mechanical efficiency. The classification
section specifically goes over structures, types of gradients, sizes/scales,
state of matter and finishes with the manufacturing processes. Section two
deep dives into the fabrication methods used in the FGMs, which are divided
into three sub-sections, including gas-based, liquid-based and solid-based.
Lastly, various applications of the FGMs in different fields and industries,
namely aerospace, energy, medicine, military, manufacturing and eventually
other applications, are demonstrated.