Scientists from Shanghai University of Science and Technology have made a groundbreaking discovery in data storage technology by inventing a new method that can store up to 125 TB of information on a single optical DVD-disk.
While optical discs like DVD and Blu-ray are renowned for their affordability and reliability, their limited storage capacity has been a major drawback. However, according to scientists, the latest technology can accommodate up to 100 layers of information at a minimum distance of 54 nanometers, significantly expanding the potential uses of optical discs.
The researchers highlight that this innovation has the potential to greatly reduce the size and energy consumption of future data processing centers, offering a sustainable solution for the growth of the digital economy. In comparison to current storage methods, this new approach achieves an unprecedented data density, substantially decreasing the physical space required. For instance, storing a petabyte of data (equivalent to 125TB) on a hard disk drive would necessitate a design approximately 2 meters high, while the requirement for a Blu-ray would be even greater.
The foundation for achieving such remarkable results lies in the development of a new material – a photorezist doped with aggregation-induced emission luminogenes (AIE-DDPR). This material boasts high homogeneity and transparency, enabling it to conduct high-alert data recording at the nanoparticle level.
The miniaturization of data storage devices not only promises a revolution in Internet technologies but also a significant reduction in the environmental impact of the technological industry. This advancement paves the way for new possibilities in digital technologies and the sustainable growth of the information society.