Organic Photoelectrochemical Multisensory Integration

Abstract

Neuromorphic perception capable of multisensory integration (MSI) in electrolytes is important but remains challenging. Here, the aqueous implementation of artificial MSI is reported based on the newly emerged organic photoelectrochemical transistor (OPECT) by representative visual (light)-gustatory (sour) perception. Under the co-modulation of light and H⁺/OH⁻, multisensory synaptic plasticity and several typical MSI characteristics are mimicked, including “super-additive response,” “inverse effectiveness effect” and “temporal congruency.” To demonstrate its potential usage, different types of multisensory associative learning and corresponding reflex activities are further emulated. The chemical MSI system is also utilized to control artificial salivation by a closed loop of real-time perception, processing, integration, and actuation to emulate the biological responses toward external stimuli. In contrast to previous solid-state operations, this work offers a new strategy for developing neuromorphic MSI in aqueous environments that are analogous to those in biology.