Ternary data storage
A research team at Flinders University has developed a new type of storage technology based on ternary code. Using a special polymer and innovative technology, the storage density is quadrupled, while energy consumption and environmental impact are significantly reduced.
For decades, data storage has been based on binary code, which only recognises two states: “0” and “1”. The new technology brings a ground-breaking change by introducing a third state “2”. This achieves a fourfold increase in storage density. Inspired by cuneiform writing, the new polymer uses tiny indentations as memory points: no indentation stands for “0”, a shallow indentation for “1” and a deeper indentation for “2”.
Precision and efficiency thanks to modern materials
The polymer, consisting of sulphur and dicyclopentadiene, is processed with atomic precision. A microscopically small tip creates the dents, replacing conventional methods such as laser beams. This offers numerous advantages.
- Energy efficiency: Mechanical processing requires no heat.
- Reusability: Data can be erased and the material rewritten by heating.
- Durability: The polymer can withstand numerous read-write-erase cycles.
Economical and sustainable
The main components of the polymer are cost-effective and environmentally friendly, unlike existing storage technologies that rely on rare earths and energy-intensive processes. The new material offers a sustainable alternative that meets the increasing demands of the digital age.
Far-reaching effects
The introduction of ternary code could push the boundaries of existing storage technologies. Major technology companies such as IBM and Intel are already showing interest in the new technology. The quadruple storage density, combined with low energy consumption and sustainability, makes this development a key to the future of big data and artificial intelligence.