Flexible Artificial Synapses Based on Field Effect Transistors: From Materials, Mechanics towards Applications

Abstract

Flexible artificial synapses, which use flexible electronic devices to simulate biological synapses, are the cornerstone of brain-like computers and artificial intelligence systems. Devices based on field-effect transistors (FETs) are suitable for emulating synaptic functions because of their diverse material selection, controllable parameters, and clear working mechanism. In addition, owing to their material fabrication and structural design, FETs can realize the special operation mechanisms of devices for constructing flexible artificial synapses with multiple functions. Herein, the essential principles of carrier transport in flexible artificial synapses based on FETs are focused. First, the selection of materials, carrier transfer mechanisms, and synaptic functions of flexible synaptic devices based on various transistors are summarized in detail. Subsequently, the applications of flexible synaptic devices in conformal artificial tactile and visual systems are introduced. Finally, future challenges and opportunities of flexible synaptic devices toward artificial neuromorphic electronics are discussed.