2006 年 27 巻 4 号 p. 232-238
Electronic devices utilizing semi-conducting properties have been used in most of information communication equipments. The advances in micro-structuring and integration technology enable the function enhancement of the semiconductor devices. However, the development will soon be pushed to its limitation. Therefore, the nano-electronic devices on the basis of new principles have been investigated in recent years. We developed a new type of nanodevice, atomic switch, that is realized by local control of solid-state electrochemical reaction using a mixed ionic and electronic conductor. The atomic switch works by the formation and annihilation of an atomic bridge between the electrodes. Here, we introduce its operation principle, basic research development, and unique functionality of the atomic switch. Furthermore, the development for the practical application of the device is described.