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Molecular HDD logic for encrypted massive data storage

Author

Listed:
  • Bingjie Guo

    (Shanghai Jiao Tong University)

  • Xinhui Chen

    (Shanghai Jiao Tong University
    Jinhua University of Vocational Technology)

  • An Chen

    (Shanghai Jiao Tong University)

  • Jinxin Wang

    (Chinese Academy of Sciences)

  • Wuhong Xue

    (Shanxi Normal University)

  • Tao Wang

    (Shanxi Normal University)

  • Zhixin Wu

    (Shanghai Jiao Tong University)

  • Xiaolong Zhong

    (Shanghai Jiao Tong University)

  • Jianmin Zeng

    (Shanghai Jiao Tong University)

  • Jinjin Li

    (Shanghai Jiao Tong University)

  • Mao Li

    (Chinese Academy of Sciences
    Jilin University)

  • Xiaohong Xu

    (Shanxi Normal University)

  • Yu Chen

    (East China University of Science and Technology)

  • Gang Liu

    (Shanghai Jiao Tong University
    Sun Yat-Sen University)

Abstract

Organic memories, with small dimension, fast speed and long retention features, are considered as promising candidates for massive data archiving. In order to satisfy the requirements for ultra-low power and high-security information storage, we design a conceptual molecular hard-disk (HDD) logic scheme that is capable to execute in-situ encryption of massive data in pW/bit power-consumption range. Beneficial from the coupled mechanism of counter-balanced redox reaction and local ion drifting, the basic HDD unit consisting of ~200 self-assembled RuXLPH molecules in a monolayer (SAM) configuration undergoes unique conductance modulation with continuous, symmetric and low-power switching characteristics. 96-state memory performance, which allows 6-bit data storage and single-unit one-step XOR operation, is realized in the RuXLPH SAM sample. Through single-unit XOR manipulation of the pixel information, in-situ bitwise encryption of the Mogao Grottoes mural images stored in the molecular HDD is demonstrated.

Suggested Citation

  • Bingjie Guo & Xinhui Chen & An Chen & Jinxin Wang & Wuhong Xue & Tao Wang & Zhixin Wu & Xiaolong Zhong & Jianmin Zeng & Jinjin Li & Mao Li & Xiaohong Xu & Yu Chen & Gang Liu, 2025. "Molecular HDD logic for encrypted massive data storage," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-11, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-57410-8
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-57410-8
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    References listed on IDEAS

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