I-Corps: Translation Potential of Memristive Devices for Radio Frequency (RF) Switching

This I-Corps project is based on the development of microwave switches used in communication technologies that can be turned on and off by the application of direct current (DC) voltages that do not need a continuous power supply to remain in an on- or off-state. Current microwave switching technologies rely on switches that require constant power to remain active. In applications where power consumption needs to be minimized, such as portable communication devices that rely on batteries on Earth and in space (e.g., satellites and other spacecraft), small savings in power may lead to large improvements in performance. This technology utilizes new materials to make non-volatile microwave switches that result in power savings without degrading performance of portable electronic devices. Integration of this switching technology into portable devices in the medical, data transmission, and space communications fields may increase their functionality and speed. This I-Corps project utilizes experiential learning coupled with first-hand investigation of the industry ecosystem to assess the translation potential of direct current (DC)-programmed resistance states to eliminate the continuous bias currents require by conventional transistor- and diode-based switches. This technology utilizes epitaxial Cu(2-x)Se (copper selenide) memristive thin films for radio frequency (RF) and microwave switching. The material stoichiometry and crystal structure, device geometry, and RF test platform are designed to achieve stable and reliable switching across the 1–100 GHz range and validate the technology for industry-relevant operation. RF switches are widely used across industries. However, each market segment prioritizes different performance requirements, such as low insertion loss, large isolation, fast switching speed, linearity, reliability, operating frequency, or power consumption. This technology is especially attractive for applications where reduced static power consumption is a key requirement and where other RF switch specifications can be optimized for the needs of a specific industry or subsystem. It may provide ultra-low-power operation for communications, medical, and avionics applications. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.