Nanomaterials in data storage: Revolutionizing device fabrication techniques

Transformative about nanomaterials in the evolution of data storage technologies is that they introduce unrivaled storage density, speed and energy efficiency for the data storage technologies. In this work, the integration of nanomaterials including graphene, carbon nanotubes and metal oxides is explored for advanced storage devices, such as ReRAM’s and optical systems. Various unique properties were exhibited by nanomaterials via top-down and bottom-up synthesis methods, with applications tailored to the nanomaterial; high electrical and heat conductivity allowed for nanomaterials with superior performance. High precision nanoscale structures necessary for next generation storage devices were fabricated using advanced fabrication techniques such as local oxidation nanolithography and self assembly. The results showed that optical storage outperforms in speed and it exhibits the best longevity among fabrication formulations, whereas self assembly provides the best scalability among fabrication methods. Yet scalability, cost, environmental footprint and durability are significant hurdles to adoption. To facilitate their future exploration, cost effective fabrication methods with sustainability and environmental compatibility have to be found for the development of the hybrid nanomaterials that improve stability. In addition, nanomaterial interfacing with fields like quantum computing will change the face of adaptive data storage systems. In this study, nanomaterials are a critical component in the establishment of this necessary frontier and foreshadows future advances in data storage, two aspects of the digital era.