Ta-Doped Sb2Te Allows Ultrafast Phase-Change Memory with Excellent High-Temperature Operation Characteristics

Phase-change memory(PCM)has considerable promise for new applications based on von Neumann and emerging neuromorphic computing systems.However,a key challenge in harnessing the advantages of PCM devices is achieving high-speed operation of these devices at elevated temperatures,which is critical for the efficient processing and reliable storage of data at full capacity.Herein,we report a novel PCM device based on Ta-doped antimony telluride(Sb2Te),which exhibits both high-speed characteristics and excellent high-temperature characteristics,with an operation speed of 2 ns,endurance of >106 cycles,and reversible switching at 140℃.The high coordination number of Ta and the strong bonds between Ta and Sb/Te atoms contribute to the robustness of the amorphous structure,which improves the thermal stability.Furthermore,the small grains in the three-dimensional limit lead to an increased energy efficiency and a reduced risk of layer segregation,reducing the power consumption and improving the long-term endurance.Our findings for this new Ta-Sb2Te material system can facilitate the development of PCMs with improved performance and novel applications.

Phase-change memory based on matched Ge-Te,Sb-Te,and In-Te octahedrons:Improved electrical performances and robust thermal stability

Phase-change memory(PCM)has been developed for three-dimensional(3D)data storage devices,posing huge challenges to the thermal stability and reliability of PCM.However,the low thermal stability of Ge2Sb2Te5(GST)limits further application.Here,we demonstrate PCM based on In0.9Ge2Sb2Te5(IGST)alloy,showing 180C 10-years data retention,6 ns set speed,one order of magnitude longer life time,and 75%reduced power consumption compared to GST-based device.The In can occupy the cationic positions and the In-Te octahedrons with good phase-change properties can geometrically match well with the host Ge-Te and Sb-Te octahedrons,acting as nucleation centers to boost the set speed and enhance the endurance of IGST device.Introducing stable matched phase-change octahedrons can be a feasible way to achieve practical PCMs.