Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
1787831 Current Applied Physics 2011 4 Pages PDF
Abstract

Thermal strain imaging using a scanning probe microscope enables us to observe thermal distribution with high resolution. A phase change memory (PCM) based on chalcogenide glasses switches their two stable states having low and relatively high resistances by Joule heating. Images obtained by thermal strain imaging revealed that Joule heating was mainly generated in particular regions and some boundaries. The large fluctuation of increases in temperature in the active area should greatly affect phase change in PCM.

Research highlights► This paper describes our original method for high resolution imaging of rising temperature, and reveals local heating in a phase change memory.

Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering Physics and Astronomy Condensed Matter Physics
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