Diffusionless Phase Transformation

Diffusionless phase transformation is a rapid change in a material's structure where atoms shift positions without diffusing or moving over long distances. This process typically occurs very quickly, such as during cooling or heating, and involves a coordinated, collective shift of atoms that results in a new but closely related crystal structure. An example is martensitic transformation in steels, which enhances strength and hardness. Unlike other transformations that require atoms to diffuse over time, diffusionless transformations happen suddenly and preserve the overall composition, creating a different arrangement but maintaining the same elemental makeup.