Computer modelling study of ablative optical recording

Abstract

Computer modelling is used to study both the optical and thermal behavior of ablative optical storage media which consist of antireflection structures incorporating a thin active layer. Confirmation is given of Blom’s contention that the advantages of improved optical efficiency gained by use of antireflection structures can be lost by heat losses to the mirror layer underlying the active layer. However, this efficiency can be regained if the dielectric spacer between these two layers is made thick enough or has sufficiently low thermal conductivity.