Holographic data storage using azobenzene polymer

It is well known that holographic data storage can significantly increase data storage capacity. However, the technological maturity of holographic data storage is believed to be impeded by the lack of good holographic material that can be erased and recorded optically with almost unlimited rewriting cycles, large index modulation for large capacity multiplexed data recording, long lifetime, and immunity to destructive readout for archival applications. The performance of an azobenzene polymer is presented for holographic data storage applications. Initial experiments demonstrated that it is capable of satisfying many of above requirements. Recording of holograms without follow-up processing and being stable in application environment are its most attractive features. Applications of such material to other adaptive structures are possible.