Success in Development of Optical Nano Sensor with Information Memory Capability

A joint research group consisting of Assistant Professor Hirofumi Tanaka of the Graduate School of Science, Osaka University and Principal Investigator Tsuyoshi Hasegawa of the International Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (MANA), NIMS, developed an optical-electrical signal conversion device called a “photoassisted atomic switch,” which represents the ultimate level of miniaturization of such devices. In this research, the group realized conversion from optical signals to electrical signals by using photoconductive molecules in the interelectrode material of an atomic switch, and thereby achieved atomic switch operation. As a result, the group realized detection and memory of optical signals by a single nanoscale device. Application to artificial eyes by integration of photoassisted atomic switches operating with ultra-low power consumption, image recognition systems using the learning function of the atomic switches, and others are expected. This research achievement was published online in the German scientific journal Small on July 13 (local time).
(http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/107640323/home)