2D-SnS-Embedded Schottky Device with Neurotransmitter-Like Functionality Produced Using Proximity Vapor Transfer...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Neuroscience
• Computer Science

Background:

• Neuromorphic computing aims to mimic biological brains using artificial synapses.
• Developing efficient 2D material-based artificial synapses is crucial for advancing AI.
• Current fabrication methods for 2D materials are complex and multistep, hindering large-scale production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, single-step fabrication technique for large-area, uniform, and transparent 2D material-based neuromorphic devices.
• To create an artificial synapse with neurotransmitter-like functionality and photoelectronic synaptic behavior.
• To demonstrate the potential of these devices in performing logical operations and imaging.

Main Methods:

• Employed a single-step proximity vapor transfer (PVT) technique using van der Waals (vdW) materials.
• Fabricated vdW materials on various substrates including glass, ITO, AZO, Mo, and Cu.
• Developed a Schottky device using vdW SnS with acetylcholine-like functionality.

Main Results:

• Achieved large (Ø ≈ 3 in.), uniform, and transparent neuromorphic devices.
• Demonstrated control over thickness and bandgap tunability of vdW materials.
• The SnS-based device exhibited photoelectronic synaptic behavior, synaptic plasticity, and logic gate operations (NOT, OR, AND).
• Successfully performed reward-cascade neurotransmission and imaging using 3 × 3 device arrays.

Conclusions:

• The single-step PVT method offers a viable approach for fabricating large-area, transparent synaptic devices.
• The developed vdW SnS-based device successfully emulates biological synapses and performs complex functions.
• This work represents a significant advancement toward practical neuromorphic computing and AI applications.