Basic thermite is just a combination of aluminum powder and iron oxide.
( hydroxide? I forget ) Sounds pretty similar to the composition of the
platter itself. Is it possible to make a platter of cast thermite?
If so, this opens up new horizons for really secure data.
The microproccesor in the drive mechanism could be instructed to ask
for a key at start-up. If it doesn't get it, it refuses to seek data.
If it gets several consecutive bad keys, it ignites the disk.
It should be possible to rig a dead-man switch so that the case cannot be
forced open without turning the platter into molten slag.
For the really paranoid, a cmos clock chip and battery could be added
internally. If a period of several days goes by without the microprocessor
getting the key, it ignites the disk. ( Of course the time period should
be programmable so that one can take vacations )
Robert Schrader rms@cts.com