Neuromorphic Liquids, Colloids, and Gels: A Review

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Neuroscience
• Robotics

Background:

• Flexible electronics and robotics demand novel components that are deformable and stretch-resistant.
• Traditional electronic components hinder the development of highly flexible and reconfigurable systems.
• Liquid electronic devices offer unique properties like flexibility, reconfiguration, and fault tolerance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of liquid electronic devices as core components for flexible liquid circuits.
• To mimic biological synaptic functions using fluidic systems for advanced computing.
• To review experimental prototypes of neuromorphic systems implemented in liquids, colloids, and gels.

Main Methods:

• Investigating liquid-based systems to emulate synaptic dynamics and complexity.
• Utilizing ionic movements as a platform for implementing neuromorphic functionalities in materials.
• Reviewing laboratory prototypes of fluidic neuromorphic systems.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated the feasibility of implementing neuromorphic systems in liquid, colloidal, and gel-based platforms.
• Highlighted the advantages of liquid electronics, including flexibility, reconfiguration, and fault tolerance.
• Showcased experimental prototypes mimicking biological synapses.

Conclusions:

• Liquid electronic devices mimicking biological synapses are promising for flexible liquid circuits.
• Fluidic neuromorphic systems offer a pathway to advanced material computing.
• Ionic movement-based systems provide a simple yet effective platform for neuromorphic applications.