Researchers Achieve Breakthrough in Diamond-Based Data Storage Technology

A new laser-etching method enables diamonds to store data with unprecedented density and durability, potentially lasting millions of years.

Scientists at the University of Science and Technology of China have developed a method to encode data in diamonds with a record-breaking density of 1.85 terabytes per cubic centimeter.
The technique uses laser pulses to create microscopic cavities in diamonds, which exhibit varying brightness levels to store information.
The storage system demonstrated 99% accuracy in encoding and retrieving data, including historical images, but remains prohibitively expensive for commercial use at this stage.
Diamonds encoded with this method can preserve data for millions of years at room temperature and endure extreme conditions, such as 100 years at 200°C, without maintenance.
While currently limited to small-scale prototypes, researchers envision future applications for long-term data preservation in industries requiring high durability and reliability.