Field-programmable rectification in rutile TiO2 crystals

Abstract

The authors report “field-programmable rectification” in crystals of rutile TiO2. A “programming” voltage is applied between two Pt electrodes on the surface of a crystal. Afterwards, current can pass in the direction of the programming voltage, but not in the reverse direction. The polarity of the rectification can be reversed by applying a programming voltage of opposite sign. The effect was observed on the (110) and (100) surfaces, but not the (001) surface. The proposed mechanism is field-induced motion of oxygen vacancies, which pile up under the negative terminal, eliminating a Schottky barrier, but leaving one at the positive terminal intact.