Solution-processed memristors: performance and reliability

Memristive devices are gaining importance in the semiconductor industry for applications in information storage, artificial intelligence cryptography and telecommunication. Memristive devices fabricated by solution-processing methods can be integrated into a wide variety of large-area substrates, which has motivated their use in applications requiring flexible, stretchable, transparent and biocompatible devices. Several studies on solution-processed memristors have claimed excellent electrical performance; however, in many cases such claims are based on scarce measurements conducted on only one device, using unreliable testing protocols or using device structures that are too large for the target applications. Understanding the reliability of a memristive structure is important to avoid hyped expectations, attract potential investments in such technology, and realistically understand its potential impact on society and on the market. In this Perspective, we analyse which solution-processed memristors have so far exhibited the highest and most reliable electronic performance, irrespective of the type of material used and the application targeted. For that group of memristors, we also discuss the switching mechanism and potential applications, as well as possible improvements in terms of device technology. We describe the outlook of this field with aims of increasing the impact and technology readiness of solution-processed memristors.