RMIT researchers create nano-structure material that could help technology get even smaller

RMIT University researchers have successfully built a nano-structure that could offer a platform for the development of ultra-fast, nano-scale memory devices.

The Functional Materials and Microsystems Research Group at RMIT, created the nanometer-thin structure with layers of a functional oxide material, more than 10,000 times thinner than human hair.

The thin film is designed to mimic the human brain in that it demonstrates a ‘memristive’ effect - where the memory element's behaviour is dependent on its past experiences.  Project leader Dr Sharath Sriram explained: "With flash memory rapidly approaching fundamental scaling limits, we need novel materials and architectures for creating the next generation of non-volatile memory.

"The structure we developed could be used for a range of electronic applications - from ultrafast memory devices that can be shrunk down to a few nanometers, to computer logic architectures that replicate the versatility and response time of a biological neural network.

"While more investigation needs to be done, our work advances the search for next generation memory technology can replicate the complex functions of human neural system - bringing us one step closer to the bionic brain."

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