Bipolar resistive switching characteristics of poly(3,4-ethylene-dioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) thin film

TL;DR

This study explores the reversible bipolar resistive switching in PEDOT:PSS thin films with Al electrodes, revealing charge transport mechanisms and structural changes responsible for resistive states.

Contribution

It demonstrates the resistive switching behavior in PEDOT:PSS films and links it to charge transport models and microstructural segregation effects, providing insights into device mechanisms.

Findings

Resistive switching depends on voltage polarity.

Charge transport follows the SCLC model.

High resistance state linked to PSS- chain segregation.

Abstract

We investigated the reversible resistive switching of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrenesulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) thin films sandwiched between Al electrodes. The J-V sweep curve showed a hysteretic behavior which depends on the polarity of the applied voltage bias. From the analysis of I-V curves, it was revealed that the charge transport through the junction was governed by the bulk space-charge-limited conduction (SCLC) model. Using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis, it was confirmed that the initial high resistance state of PEDOT:PSS films is related with the segregation of PSS- chains induced by redox reaction between a Al metal electrode and PEDOT:PSS film. Positive space charges present on the top region of PEDOT:PSS films can be proposed as a possible trap centers of electron trapping and detrapping process.