Conjugated Polymer Tunneling Devices for Plastic Electronic Memory

Ohio State University, The, Columbus OH

Investigators

Abstract

The objective of this research is to advance polymer tunnel diodes and circuits for ultra-low power self-powered computing. Advances by this team for the first conjugated polymer based tunnel diode circuitry using room temperature negative differential resistance (NDR) enable new opportunities for low-power consumption circuitry (logic, memory and mixed-signal). NDR circuitry can provide (i) component count reduction (more computational power per unit area), (ii) lower power consumption (fewer devices per logic function). This extends beyond the functionality and on-board intelligence of organic RFIDs while operating autonomously powered. The approach will use a systematic exploration and development of polymer tunnel diodes in three vertically integrated research thrusts: (i) novel materials, (ii) device technology, and (iii) system applications and impact. The proposed project will establish a world-class program in polymer tunnel diodes that will advance low-power autonomous powered electronics, low-temperature processing of high-k dielectrics, understanding of role of defects in tunneling through ultra-thin high-k dielectrics, biosensors and polymer solar cells. The integrated research, education and technology transfer will advance SmartCard technology (credit cards and identification cards) with greater on-board intelligence, permitting enhanced data manipulation, distributed computing, radio frequency (RF) input/output (I/O) datalinks, and possibly even hardwired encryption algorithms to protect personal data better than traditional magnetic strips. The proposed research project will create a unique and focused program that incorporates a wide-range of external collaborations with industry, government labs and academia.