Pressure-sensitive synaptic transistors for multifunctional neuromorphic processing

초록

Emulating biological synapses is essential for advanced neuromorphic computing. In this study, we demonstrate a multifunctional tactile synaptic transistor (MTST) that integrates tactile sensing, artificial synaptic functions, and non-volatile memory into a single device platform. The MTST, which consists of a micropatterned ionogel gate dielectric and a poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) semiconductor, achieves high sensitivity and a broad pressure detection range from 500 kPa to 8.5 MPa, with tunable sensitivity up to 58,000 kPa-1. The MTST effectively replicates key biological synaptic functions, including short-term plasticity (STP) and long-term plasticity (LTP), through pressure-induced ion doping and de-doping processes. Additionally, the MTST introduces non-volatile memory functionality by modulating the pressure, allowing the device to switch between ON and OFF states by controlling the interfacial capacitance between the ionogel and semiconductor. Notably, the MTST maintains a high-conductance state for over 46,000 s without requiring continuous power, demonstrating its potential for non-volatile memory applications. Overall, this work underscores the potential of a simple yet effective tactile synaptic device, suitable not only for human-machine interfaces and soft robotics but also for long-lasting, energy-efficient memory in neuromorphic data processing.

키워드