Memristive circuits based on multilayer hexagonal boron nitride for millimetre-wave radiofrequency applications

Radiofrequency switches that drive or block high-frequency electromagnetic signals—typically, a few to tens of gigahertz—are essential components in modern communication devices. However, demand for higher data transmission rates requires radiofrequency switches capable of operating at frequencies beyond 100 GHz, which is challenging for current technologies. Here we report ambipolar memristive radiofrequency switches that are based on multilayer hexagonal boron nitride and can operate at frequencies up to 260 GHz. The ambipolar behaviour, which could help reduce peripheral hardware requirements, is due to a Joule-effect-assisted reset. We show switching in 21 devices with low-resistance states averaging 294 Ω and endurances of 2,000 cycles. With further biasing optimization, we reduce the resistance to 9.3 ± 3.7 Ω over more than 475 cycles, and achieve an insertion loss of 0.9 dB at 120 GHz. We also build a series–shunt device configuration with an isolation of 35 dB at 120 GHz. An optimized pulsed voltage write–verify switching approach can be used to improve the switching performance of memristors based on hexagonal boron nitride for radiofrequency circuit applications.