Optically modulated electric synapses realized with memristors based on ZnO nanorods

Abstract

Artificial synapses based on compact nanodevices are indispensable building blocks for implementing artificial neural networks in hardware. In this work, we demonstrate optically modulated artificial synapses realized with ZnO nanorods. These artificial synapses advance preceding memristive synapses with regard to the ability of response to not only electric but also optical modulation. The high surface state densities of the ZnO nanorods endow the present device with high photoresponse, resulting in the optical shielding effect, while the subsequent deshielding can be realized by applying electric pulses. The optical shielding and electrical deshielding functions provide abilities to process massive data for artificial neural networks. Moreover, with the aid of the optical modulation, methods are opened up for future optically tuned synaptic devices for secured communications.