Reversible holographic recording materials for optical information storage

The organization of a random access read-write-erase holographic optical memory is described, and estimates are given for the characteristics required of a reversible holographic storage material suitable for this application. The characteristics of photo-chromic, thermo-chromic, and electrically controlled materials are surveyed to indicate how far existing materials satisfy, or could be developed to satisfy, the requirements of fast optical information storage. A figure of merit is defined to indicate the relative value of existing materials for storage applications.