A Review on Multi-Level Asymmetric Design for 2D Neuromorphic Devices

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Neuroscience
• Electrical Engineering

Background:

• Asymmetry is a crucial design strategy for neuromorphic functionalities like directional signal propagation and synaptic plasticity.
• Breaking symmetry introduces physical phenomena vital for emulating neurons and synapses.
• A systematic understanding of asymmetry's function across design levels is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review asymmetric engineering in materials, structures, and devices for neuromorphic applications.
• To analyze how multi-level asymmetry in two-dimensional (2D) materials enables synaptic plasticity emulation.
• To provide a design framework for next-generation neuromorphic hardware.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of asymmetric engineering across material, structural, and device levels.
• Analysis of two-dimensional (2D) materials' properties for neuromorphic device applications.
• Discussion of challenges and future perspectives in asymmetric neuromorphic hardware design.

Main Results:

• Asymmetric engineering at material, structural, and device levels leads to unique physical phenomena.
• Two-dimensional (2D) materials exhibit versatility for creating multi-level asymmetry.
• Multi-level asymmetry in 2D materials allows for diverse and tunable neuromorphic device functions, particularly in synaptic plasticity emulation.

Conclusions:

• Multi-level asymmetric engineering, especially with 2D materials, is a promising approach for neuromorphic computing.
• Further research into integrating multiple asymmetries and extending to circuit/system levels is warranted.
• This review establishes a design framework for developing advanced neuromorphic intelligent hardware.