Materials for optical data storage

The development of recording materials has been a critical component in the advancement of optical data storage. The continual need for improved performance in both consumer and business applications has pushed forward the capabilities of optical storage. In this issue of MRS Bulletin, we review some of the important developments in the materials behind established technologies such as compact discs, digital versatile discs, and magneto-optical recording; the emerging technology of blue recording; and two technologies that seek to extend the performance roadmap for optical storage, multilayer and holographic recording.