Formation and dissolution of conductive channels in an Ag₂S-islands network

A network that shows dynamical change in response to each input pattern works as a reservoir. In this study, we propose to use a network of Ag₂S islands for reservoir computing. Input of a small number of electrons to an Ag₂S island from a neighbored island causes Ag nanowire growth, which eventually connects the two islands. Shrinkage of an Ag nanowire also occurs depending on the distribution of a local electric potential. Thus, growth and shrinkage of Ag nanowires among Ag₂S islands shows dynamical change in conductive channels responding to input bias, which is demonstrated by an Ag₂S-island network surrounded by input/output electrodes. The Ag₂S islands that are electrically connected to a surrounding electrode are identified using a conductive-atomic force microscope, confirming the operating mechanism.