Researchers at the University of Sydney have made a significant advancement in nanotechnology by demonstrating that nanowire networks can replicate both short- and long-term memory functions akin to those of the human brain. These networks, made from highly conductive silver wires covered in plastic and arranged in a mesh pattern, emulate the brain’s physical structure. The study, led by Dr. Alon Loeffler and published in Science Advances, highlights the potential for non-biological systems to achieve cognitive functions, drawing parallels between nanowires and neurons, with their connections resembling synapses.
The team tested the network using a memory task similar to the N-Back test used in psychology, discovering that the nanowire network could retain information from up to seven previous steps, indicating remarkable memory capacity. By manipulating the voltages in the electrodes, the researchers enhanced the network’s accuracy, suggesting that consistent reinforcement is key for memory consolidation, reminiscent of human memory processes. This research opens new prospects for real-world applications, particularly in improving robotics and sensor technologies, showcasing the potential for non-biological systems to exhibit brain-like learning and adaptation.
