We propose a tunable cylinder-based granular system that is functionally graded in its stiffness distribution in space. With no initial compression given to the system, it supports highly nonlinear waves propagating under an impulse excitation. We investigate analytically, numerically and experimentally the ability to accelerate and decelerate the impulse wave without a significant scattering in the space domain. Moreover, the gradient in stiffness results in the scaling of contact forces along the chain. We envision that such tunable systems can be used for manipulating highly nonlinear impulse waves for novel sensing and impact mitigation purposes.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Nonlinear energy transfer in dynamical and acoustical systems’.