Forming process investigation of CuxO memory films

The forming process, which is the first transition from fresh state to low resistance state, was investigated in CuxO memory films prepared by plasma-induced oxidation. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy investigation of surface chemical bonds of CuxO films and Auger electron spectroscopy depth spectra show that the formation of a highly resistive CuO layer on the CuxO surface is the main reason for the requirement of a large forming voltage. After selectively deoxidizing the CuO into Cu2O, the need for the forming process disappears.