Superman's
Memory Crystals May Become Computer Reality
Researchers at Southampton University used lasers to
rearrange the atoms in pieces of glass, turning it
into new type of computer memory. They claim the glass
memory is far more stable and resilient than current
types of hard-drive memory, which have a limited
lifespan of a couple of decades and are vulnerable to
damage from high temperatures and moisture. The glass
memory can withstand temperatures of up to 1,800
degrees F, is unaffected by water and can last for
thousands of years without losing information.
Information can be written, wiped and rewritten into
the molecular structure of the glass using a laser,
the scientists claim. The process changes the way
light travels through the glass, creating whirlpools
of polarised light that can then be read in much the
same way as data in optical fibres.