The Physics of Optical Recording

This volume describes the physical processes that occur during the recording of information in an optical medium. Following an overview of optical imaging and recording techniques, the text discusses inorganic and organic recording materials and their photosensitive properties.

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Since the industrial production of compact disks began, it has become clear that optics is no longer purely a means for gathering information but is becoming more and more a means of information transfer, analysis and storage. The present book treats the physical processes that occur during the recording of information in an optical medium. After an overview of optical imaging and optical recording, especially diode lasers and non-linear optics are briefly discussed. Then inorganic and organic recording materials and their photosensitive properties are presented. Special attention is paid to 3D holographic recording. Finally, photo-thermal recording in the production of memory disks is discussed in detail.