Reconfigurable multiwavelength nanophotonic circuit based on a low-voltage, optically readable engineered resistive switch

Abstract

Nanoscale optical functionalities show promise for unconventional computing, including neuromorphic and quantum information processing. Resistive switching devices with optical readability have drawn significant research interest for high-density non-volatile memory and unconventional computing. We proposed a multiwavelength nanophotonic circuit consisting of resistive switches based on Ag-SiO2-ITO on a silicon rib structure, with the capability to electrically remove any wavelength channel(s) at will. The device featured a four-layered structure with a SiO2 region positioned between an Ag top electrode and an ITO bottom electrode on p-Si, confining the hybrid plasmonic mode within the SiO2 region. The application of an external voltage caused the formation/rupture of conductive filaments in the SiO2 layer, affecting optical absorption through hybrid mode interactions. Experimental results showed a 27 dB extinction ratio for a 10 μm × 500 nm active device operated at ±2 V. Additionally, the circuit achieved multiwavelength functionality using identical sources and 2 × 1 couplers, enhancing reconfigurability. The higher work function of ITO helped in reducing the energy barrier for ion migration, overcoming the intrinsic resistance of the SiO2 layer. This engineered nanophotonic circuit, with its high extinction ratio, excellent retention, low-voltage operation, and rapid switching speed, is suitable for advanced memory devices, high-speed optical communication, neuromorphic and quantum computation, and programmable photonic circuits. © 2025 The Royal Society of Chemistry.