CHAPTER 14: Ambipolar Two-dimensional Materials and Synaptic Devices for Neuromorphic Computing

As Moore's law approaches its limits, it is gradually harder to achieve the more and more complex tasks with computers with conventional von Neumann architecture. The hardware circuits for neuromorphic computing, with low power and high computing density, have attracted a lot of attention. Based on these requirements, how to choose the appropriate circuit components for neuromorphic computing becomes very important. Ambipolar synaptic devices with tunable and versatile behaviours, as a new type of circuit component, can mimic both excitatory and inhibitory behaviours, which has great potential in neuromorphic computing. In this chapter, we will introduce the definitions of ambipolar materials and synaptic devices. Then, the characteristics and applications of the synaptic devices will be discussed. The differences between conventional and ambipolar synaptic devices will also be compared. Finally, we will introduce the possibility of applying ambipolar synaptic devices in array to achieve more complex work.