A South Korean research team has confirmed that synaptic transistors, a key component for next-generation artificial intelligence chips, possess potential applicability in high-radiation space environments, according to the Ministry of Science and ICT on Thursday.
In a collaborative project, the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, working with Chungbuk National University and Belgium's IMEC, achieved a breakthrough in the development of synaptic transistors. The researchers fabricated the synaptic transistors using indium gallium zinc oxide and subjected them to testing with a proton accelerator. The results demonstrated the transistors' ability to withstand radiation levels equivalent to 20 years of exposure in space.
Although the device's performance experienced some degradation post-testing, its core functionality remained stable. The Ministry of Science and ICT stated that the findings confirm the technology's potential for use in aerospace-grade AI semiconductors, marking a significant step forward in developing chips capable of operating in extreme environments. The ministry further added that this represents the world's first validation of such technology.
"This outcome demonstrates the potential for AI systems to operate reliably in extreme environments like space," the ministry said in a statement. "We will continue to develop core AI chip technologies for the aerospace and aviation industries."
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