Evaluation of Nano-Grating-Based Optical Data Storage Media

This research focuses on the performance of NG-DVD media, produced using nano wire-grid polarizer technology. The nanowire structures, with aluminum wires of approximately 80 nm width and 70 nm spacing, provide an innovative solution for enhancing the reflectivity, polarization, and data encoding efficiency in optical storage. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the reflection amplitude and polarization efficiency of the NG-DVD media under various optical setups. Using a focused, linearly polarized laser at 633 nm and a high numerical aperture (NA) lens, the reflective behavior of the NG-DVD was tested. Results show that the nanowire grating exhibits a predictable Cosine² function for reflected amplitude, maintaining around 80% efficiency relative to standard first-surface aluminum mirrors across a range of NAs (0.16-0.65). The study also explored the low noise characteristics of NG-DVD media, comparing its performance with phase-change media used in re-writable CDs/DVDs. The data demonstrate that NG-DVD media offers significant advantages in terms of reflectivity and dynamic range, making it a promising candidate for high-density optical data storage.