interstitial compounds

Interstitial compounds are materials where small atoms, like carbon or nitrogen, fit into the tiny gaps or spaces within a larger metal crystal structure without disrupting its overall form. These smaller atoms occupy interstitial sites—positions between the regular metal atoms—creating a new, stronger material. An example is steel, where carbon atoms fit into the iron's lattice, making it harder and more durable than pure iron. This process enhances the properties of metals by introducing different elements into their crystalline framework, resulting in alloys with improved strength, hardness, or other desired characteristics.