Polymer/TiO₂Nanorod Nanocomposite Optical Memristor Device

Modulation of resistive switching memory by light opens the route to new optoelectronic devices that can be controlled both optically and electronically. Applications include integrated circuits with elements switchable neuromorphic computing reconfigurable tunable synaptic circuits. We report on a unique nanocomposite material device made from low concentration (∼0.1% mass) titanium dioxide nanorods (TiO2-NRs) embedded within azobenzene polymer, poly(disperse red 1 acrylate, PDR1A). The exhibits reversible electronic memristor polarization-dependent optical switching. Optical irradiation circularly polarized causes trans-cis photochemical isomerization modifies conformation orientation photoactive azo-unit polymer. resulting expansion composite (PDR1A/TiO2-NR) polymer film conduction pathway, facilitated presence TiO2-NRs, as semiconductor material, through film, which provides sensitive means control in device. effect is changing polarization state incident light. A charge-flux model successfully reproduces current-voltage hysteresis loops threshold properties device, well illumination electrical characteristics.