Flexible electrically erasable nonvolatile organic memory utilizing a solution-processed transparent polyethylene oxide: PCBM blend film

Abstract

Organic flexible transparent electrically erasable nonvolatile memory presents significant potential for integration into bendable, stretchable, and transparent electronic devices. This capability unlocks a broad spectrum of potential applications in various fields, including wearable devices, medical equipment, and smart buildings. Polyethylene oxide (PEO) is a promising candidate for these devices due to its broad band gap, mechanical flexibility, chemical and thermal stability, water solubility, biocompatibility, and low cost. This study demonstrates a flexible transparent nonvolatile memory device utilizing a PEO and fullerene blend film. The average transmittance of the PET/ITO/PEO:PC₆₁BM multilayer stack exceeds 86% in the optically visible range from 380 nm to 800 nm. The PET/ITO/PEO:PC₆₁BM/Al device exhibits typical nonvolatile memory behavior, with the maximum electrical ON/OFF state ratio exceeding 10³. Furthermore, retention tests for both ON and OFF states, along with bending cycle measurements and Write-Read-Erase-Read cycle endurance tests, indicate that the device remains stable under ambient conditions. The electrical conduction transition mechanisms are attributed to the formation of carbon filaments by PCBM aggregates.