Integrating molecular photoswitch memory with nanoscale optoelectronics for neuromorphic computing

Summary, in English

Photonic solutions are potentially highly competitive for energy-efficient neuromorphic computing. However, a combination of specialized nanostructures is needed to implement all neuro-biological functionality. Here, we show that donor-acceptor Stenhouse adduct dyes integrated with III-V semiconductor nano-optoelectronics have combined excellent functionality for bio-inspired neural networks. The dye acts as synaptic weights in the optical interconnects, while the nano-optoelectronics provide neuron reception, interpretation and emission of light signals. These dyes can reversibly switch from absorbing to non-absorbing states, using specific wavelength ranges. Together, they show robust and predictable switching, low energy thermal reset and a memory dynamic range from days to sub-seconds that allows both short- and long-term memory operation at natural timescales. Furthermore, as the dyes do not need electrical connections, on-chip integration is simple. We illustrate the functionality using individual nanowire photodiodes as well as arrays. Based on the experimental performance metrics, our on-chip solution is capable of operating an anatomically validated model of the insect brain navigation complex.

• Author: David Alcer; Nelia Zaiats; Thomas K. Jensen; Abbey M. Philip; Evripidis Gkanias; Nils Ceberg; Abhijit Das; Vidar Flodgren; Stanley Heinze; Magnus T. Borgström; Barbara Webb; Bo W. Laursen; Anders Mikkelsen
• Department/s: LU Profile Area: Light and Materials; LTH Profile Area: Nanoscience and Semiconductor Technology; Solid State Physics; NanoLund: Centre for Nanoscience; Synchrotron Radiation Research; Chemical Physics; Sensory Biology; Lund Vision Group; LU Profile Area: Natural and Artificial Cognition; ACT: Advanced Chip Technology; LTH Profile Area: Photon Science and Technology
• Publishing year: 2025-01
• Language: English
• Publication/Series: Communications Materials
• Volume: 6
• Issue: 1
• Links: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43246-024-00707-w
• Document type: Journal article
• Publisher: Springer Nature
• Topic: Other Physics Topics
• Status: Published
• Project: Development of Optically Communicating Nanowire-based III-V Devices: Optical broadcasting for artificial neural networks
• Research group: Lund Vision Group