Laser Pulses Pave Way for Ultrafast Data Storage

New research from the University of Exeter introduces a method for manipulating magnetism with heat, potentially revolutionizing data storage. The team's technique leverages the properties of 2D materials, allowing for low thermal conductivity and anisotropic heat dissipation. By using precisely timed laser pulses, they achieved real-time monitoring of temperature and magnetization dynamics in atomically thin 2D materials with unprecedented precision. This breakthrough enables the development of ultrafast data recording devices operating exclusively with laser pulses, eliminating the need for external magnetic fields. The ability to control magnetism with lasers could lead to highly efficient, non-volatile memory devices that are faster, smaller, and more reliable. Dr. Maciej Dąbrowski noted the research opens possibilities for thermal engineering of future devices on ultrafast timescales, with potential applications in ultrafast magnetic recording and quantum technologies.