method of manufacturing a gradient function material precursor and functionally graded material, as well as functionally graded material precursor and FGM

摘要

Provided are a precursor for a functionally gradient material, the precursor being inexpensive and having excellent quality stability and a gradient in material composition, and a process for producing the precursor. Also provided are a functionally gradient material which has a gradient in material composition or in material composition and porosity and which has an enhanced function and a process for producing the material. The precursor for a functionally gradient material is formed through a step in which a plurality of metal foam precursors which generate a plurality of cells in the metallic members upon a heat treatment are formed so that the metallic members differ in material composition and a step in which the multiple metal foam precursors are bonded together by friction stir welding. The functionally gradient material is formed by subjecting the precursor for a functionally gradient material to a heat treatment.