Co-percolation to tune conductive behaviour in dynamical metallic nanowire networks

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Nanowire networks exhibit self-healing and tunable resistance, crucial for smart materials.
• Memristive behavior in nanowire networks arises from voltage-controlled junction resistance modifications.
• Noble metal nanowires (e.g., silver) are common, but expensive; nickel nanowire networks have high operating voltages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate heterogeneous nanowire networks for optimized memristive and resistive switching properties.
• To explore the effect of incorporating small percentages of silver nanowires into nickel nanowire networks.
• To demonstrate a cost-effective approach for adaptive materials with memristive behavior.

Main Methods:

• Experimental fabrication and characterization of heterogeneous nickel-silver nanowire networks.
• Computational simulation using a dynamical activation framework to model junction behavior.
• Analysis of electrical properties, including sheet resistance and activation voltage.

Main Results:

• Heterogeneous networks allow tuning of activation voltage and conduction behavior (resistive switching, memristive, or combined).
• Small additions of silver nanowires, even below percolation threshold, significantly alter network properties.
• Silver nanowires act as local current concentrators, enhancing conductivity.

Conclusions:

• Heterogeneous nickel-silver nanowire networks provide a cost-effective route to adaptive materials.
• Minimal noble metal inclusion preserves essential memristive behavior for advanced applications.
• This approach is vital for developing smart sensing and neuromorphic devices.