Solution-processed high-k thin films as a resistive switching for ReRAM applications

Resistive switching characteristics of solution-processed high-k thin films (HfOx and TaOx) were investigated for ReRAM applications. The thickness of solution-processed high-k thin films can be easily controlled by simple spin coating. We optimized the critical thickness of solution-processed HfOx and TaOx thin films, for reliable ReRAM operations. A similar bipolar resistive switching behavior was observed from both solution-processed and sputter-processed HfOx films. Furthermore, it was found that the solution-processed HfOx and TaOx films have a uniform resistive switching characteristic. The dominant conduction of these solution-processed films is described by Ohmic conduction in the low-resistance state. On the other hand, Ohmic conduction at low voltage and Poole-Frenkel emission at high voltage dominate in the high-resistance state. It was verified that the solution-processed HfOx and TaOx films have superior endurance and retention characteristics. Therefore, ReRAM devices based on solution-processed high-k materials are expected to be a promising candidate, for usage of resistive memory in glass substrate or flexible substrate based electronic devices. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.