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Nagoya University Researchers Developed a Technique That Logs Messages in Ice With Morse Code, Using Only Heat, Salt and Thermal Sensors
In a curious advancement in the field of data storage, researchers from Nagoya University in Japan have created a method to write and read messages in blocks of ice. The innovation uses heat, salt, and crystals to record Morse code signals directly on the frozen surface.
The research was published in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science. In the study, the scientists demonstrated how heat pulses applied to ice surfaces with sodium chloride generate specific cavities.
These cavities form the dots and dashes of Morse code. The process does not use electronics or advanced materials.
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The reading of these messages is also impressive. Instead of light or optical sensors, the system resorts to thermal sensors.
These sensors detect the heat variations of the cavities and translate the recorded signals. This way, the system allows messages to be erased and re-recorded by simply melting and re-freezing the surface.
According to the authors, the technique works accurately and can be repeated several times. Since the process does not rely on electronic components integrated into the ice, it offers a simple and efficient solution for temporary data storage.
In the video released with the article, the scientists show the creation and reading of the letters “F” and “L” in real time.
The generated cavities are invisible to the naked eye, which makes the system even more discreet. Only thermal cameras or infrared sensors can capture the stored data.
The article highlights that this approach could have applications in thermal coding, environmental sensors, and data security.
The fact that ice is naturally perishable and reusable contributes to the proposal for a temporary but effective system.
The team claims that storage in ice, although simple, represents a new way of thinking about the use of materials in emerging technologies. The study thus proposes an alternative that unites nature, science, and creativity.
This discovery shows that, even amid advanced technologies, original solutions can emerge from simple elements—like ice and table salt.
With information from Super Interessante.
