Theoretical modelling of multilayer microholographic recording and readout

This work is focused on exploring the possibilities of multilayer recording approach in holographic data storage. The critical feature of multilayer storage is Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR). The goal is to develop a suitable numerical model for the estimation of the noises arising from inter-layer and inter-hologram crosstalk, applicable for bit-oriented microholograms written in a thick photopolymer layer. In microholographic data storage the write laser beam is strongly focused into a photosensitive, recording material and then focused back from a mirror on the opposite side of the sample. Consequently, microholograms are created by two counterpropagating, highly focused beams. Recording with such focused beams results in a volume-localized refractive index modulation of a microhologram. For readout, the probe beam is scattered by the hologram.