Researchers from the Vienna University of Technology and Cerabyte have achieved a groundbreaking feat by reducing the size of a QR code to a mere 1.98 µm².
This QR code is smaller than most bacteria and requires an electron microscope for viewing. Recognized by the Guinness World Records, this tiny code is just 37% of the size of the previous record holder. The codes demonstrate remarkable stability under extreme temperatures and pressures, thanks to their innovative design. Scientists employed focused ion beams to etch the code onto a ceramic layer, creating pixels with a width of approximately 49 nm—ten times smaller than the wavelength of visible light.
“Our structure is so fine that it is invisible under optical microscopes,” explained Professor Paul Mayrhofer.
This cutting-edge technology could revolutionize data storage. Unlike current storage devices, such as hard drives, which often fail within a few years, this new method promises exceptional durability by utilizing thin ceramic films. These materials are typically used to coat high-performance cutting tools.
Though scientists can manipulate individual atoms, they often face challenges as these structures tend to change over time, resulting in data loss. Atoms tend to diffuse and fill gaps, disrupting stored information. The team at Vienna University has developed a solution to overcome this. Mayrhofer notes that their code structure can preserve information for centuries.
An A4 paper sheet can hold over 2TB of data. Unlike modern data centers, these storage mediums require no electricity or cooling, offering an eco-friendly alternative. This innovation could significantly reduce global carbon emissions from data centers. The team is now focused on making the process more efficient and cost-effective, with aspirations to move beyond simple QR codes to complex data structures. This research paves the way for a more sustainable digital future.
In related news, Samsung plans to cease production of SATA interface SSDs by 2026, which may lead to a reduced supply of solid-state drives and potential price increases for both SATA and NVMe SSDs. Meanwhile, Seagate has achieved a HDD density of 6.9 TB on a single disk, potentially leading to drives up to 69 TB.
“Our structure is so fine that it is invisible under optical microscopes,” emphasized Professor Paul Mayrhofer.
Additionally, Micron has introduced the world’s first PCI 6.0 SSD with a speed of 28,000 MB/s and a 245 TB drive.