World's smallest QR code, smaller than bacteria, could store data for centuries
www.sciencedaily.com
Scientists have created a microscopic QR code so tiny it can only be seen with an electron microscope—smaller than most bacteria and now officially a world record. But this isn’t just about size; it’s about durability. By engraving data into ultra-stable ceramic materials, the team has opened the door to storing information that could last for centuries or even millennia without needing power or maintenance.
  • ranzispa@mander.xyzEnglish
    0·
    20 days ago

    2 terabytes of data could fit within the area of a single A4 sheet of paper

    Unless it can be paper thin this does not look better than magnetic tape. Moreover, would the handling of the material be safe from handling? I reckon you could scratch it pretty easily.

    • GamingChairModel@lemmy.worldEnglish
      0·
      20 days ago

      Unless it can be paper thin this does not look better than magnetic tape.

      As the article explains, the whole purpose here is to be able to store data on a medium that can endure harsh conditions, including heat, moisture, radiation, and physical abrasion. The company’s website claims the medium can retain data for 5000 years without power, and is water and fire resistant.

      I reckon you could scratch it pretty easily.

      The underlying ceramic film is already used for protecting tools like drill bits and saw blades from physical damage, which is why it was chosen for this project. They already found one of the most durable materials in the world, and asked whether they could store data using that already-durable material.