Functionally graded material (FGM) is a new type of heterogeneous engineering material composed of two or more materials with gradient composition, which is widely used in the engineering field due to its light weight, excellent physical properties and forming flexibility. The traditional production process is often limited by the long production cycle and customization problems when preparing FGM, and it is difficult to quickly respond to the high standard needs of modern engineering. The rise of additive manufacturing technology has opened up a revolutionary path for the manufacture of FGM. This technology has greatly contributed to the development of FGM due to its simplified production process, high design flexibility, and easy to achieve gradient continuity. In this paper, we systematically review the latest research results of FGM preparation using different additive manufacturing technologies at home and abroad, deeply analyze the process characteristics of these technologies and the performance of the prepared materials, and discuss the wide application of FGM in many engineering fields. Finally, based on the in-depth analysis of the current situation, this paper looks forward to the future development trend of additive manufacturing technology in the field of FGM, and emphasizes the key role of basic science research, high-tech integrated application, and special environment service needs in promoting the sustainable development of this field.

Zhu Weiguang, Wang Kun, Yan Chaowei, Li Yifan, Jiang Yanlin. Research progress and prospect of additive manufacturing technology for the preparation of functionally graded materials. International Journal of Frontiers in Engineering Technology(2025), Vol. 7, Issue 2: 96-107. https://doi.org/10.25236/IJFET.2025.070213.

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