Current trends and future prospects of electrodeposition technology for the preparation of heterogeneous structural materials

Heterogeneous structural materials (HSMs) are well known for their excellent mechanical properties, such as high strength, plasticity, and fracture toughness, which are far superior to homogeneous materials. Consequently, they find extensive applications in various fields, including mechanics, electronics, optics, magnetism, chemistry, and biology. These exceptional properties primarily stem from the synergistic effects arising from the interactions between their constituent components, encompassing stress/strain gradients, geometrically necessary dislocations, and unique interfacial behaviors. Numerous investigations have been conducted on the preparation of HSMs. This study aims to summarize their advantages and fundamental principles. We categorized the HSMs, emphasizing their design, optimization of mechanical properties, physical and chemical characterization, and the pivotal role of electrodeposition techniques in the preparation process. In addition, we forecast future trends and identify key research challenges in the electrodeposition of HSMs.