In this brief overview, we present recent work on the novel concept of topo
logical interlocking as a means of designing new materials and structures.
Starting from a special self-supporting arrangement of tetrahedron-shaped e
lements that was discovered first, we proceed with the introduction of othe
r shapes exhibiting topological interlocking. Unusual mechanical properties
of assemblies of tetrahedrons that were studied both experimentally and th
eoretically are discussed. Possible applications can range from large scale
mortar free construction in civil engineering to novel advanced materials
based on microscale interlocking elements.