Polymer gradient materials are relatively new concepts. However
they have exhibited superior properties compared with homogeneous systems. In this paper
the present research progress in polymer gradient materials are reviewed. The preparation methods of gradient materials was classfied into two main kind
such as extrnal field methods and physical or chemistry methods. Then the development of the new characterization technique-highthourghput and combinatorial approaches was expounded. It is believed that the methods will accelerate the development of the new materials. Finally
the applications including in medical or damping materals are also reviewed.