Processing techniques for functionally graded materials

An overview of the achievements of the German priority program "Functionally Grades Materials (FGM)" in the field of processing techniques is given. Established powder processes and techniques involving metal melts are described, and recent developments in the field of grades polymer processing are considered. The importance of modelling of gradient formation, sintering and drying for the production of defect-free parts with predictable gradients in microstructure is discussed, and examples of a successful application of numerical simulations to the processing of functionally graded materials are given.