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Ferroelectric memristors represent a promising new generation of devices that have a wide range of applications in memory, digital information processing, and neuromorphic computing. Recently, van der Waals ferroelectric In₂Se₃with unique interlinked out‐of‐plane and in‐plane polarizations has enabled multidirectional resistance switching, providing unprecedented flexibility in planar and vertical device integrations. However, the operating mechanisms of these devices have remained unclear. Here, through the demonstration of van der Waals In₂Se₃‐based planar ferroelectric memristors with the device resistance continuously tunable over three orders of magnitude, and by correlating device resistance states, ferroelectric domain configurations, and surface electric potential, the studies reveal that the resistive switching is controlled by the multidomain formations and the associated energy barriers between domains, as opposed to the commonly assumed Schottky barrier modulations at the metal‐ferroelectric interface. The findings reveal new device physics through elucidating the microscopic operating mechanisms of this new generation of devices, and provide a critical guide for future device development and integration efforts.

The discovery of radiation‐shielding materials remains a critical technology to enable long‐term space travel and extraterrestrial colonization. Hydrocarbon polymers, such as high‐density polyethylene (HDPE), are among the best radiation attenuators due to their rich H content and lightweight. Due to their simple chemical structure that lacks larger heteroatoms, HDPE is also resistant to numerous radiation‐induced degradation pathways that often limit the applicability of more sophisticated polymers. One drawback of hydrocarbon polymers is their inferior mechanical properties, such as tensile strength and impact toughness, relative to metals and other high‐performance polymer systems. In this report, we develop an alkylated reduced graphene oxide that is used as an additive to enhance the storage and tensile moduli of HDPE by 10–15% across the lunar temperature range. These additives outperform unmodified reduced graphene oxide by 30% due to better dispersion through the polymer matrix as observed by cross‐sectional scanning electron microscopy. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:86–94, 2020. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers