2D van der Waals heterostructure memristors: from band structure regulation to neuromorphic computing applications

Two-dimensional (2D) materials and their van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs) have shown tremendous potential in the fields of memristors and neuromorphic computing due to their unique band structures and tunable physical properties. This paper reviews the band structures of 2D vdWHs, as well as the mechanisms for their regulation, and discusses the impact of preparation methods such as wet and dry transfer on the interfaces of heterojunctions. On this basis, it delves into the switching mechanisms of memristors based on vdWHs, including the conductive filament model, charge trapping and release, and interfacial barrier modulation. Furthermore, the review focuses on the applications of vdWH memristors in neuromorphic synapses, such as optoelectronic synapses, artificial vision, ferroelectric effect regulation, logical circuit design, and reservoir computing. These applications not only promote the development of neuromorphic computing but also provide new solutions for the next generation of low-power, high-integration artificial intelligence hardware. Finally, the review summarizes the current research challenges and future development directions, offering theoretical guidance and technical prospects for memristors based on 2D vdWHs and their applications in neuromorphic computing.