Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a resistive switching device comprises a bottom electrode, a switching layer disposed over the bottom electrode, and a top electrode disposed over the switching layer. The top electrode comprises an alloy of a memory metal and an alloying element. The top electrode provides a source of the memory metal. The memory metal is configured to change a state of the switching layer.

Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a resistive switching device comprises a bottom electrode, a switching layer disposed over the bottom electrode, and a top electrode disposed over the switching layer. The top electrode comprises an alloy of a memory metal and an alloying element. The top electrode provides a source of the memory metal. The memory metal is configured to change a state of the switching layer.

Abstract: Thin layers of aluminum and palladium are deposited and annealed to produce aluminum-palladium alloy. The surface of the alloy is exposed and treated with an aluminum enchant to produce a catalytic surface. The catalytic surface is used for electroless plating of nickel, providing excellent plating uniformity and adhesion, as well as a reduced plating induction time. Several variants of the basic method are shown.

Abstract: A Maximum Areal Density Recessed Oxide Isolation (MADROX) process for forming semiconductor devices, in which forms an insulating layer is formed on a monocrystalline silicon substrate and a patterned polycrystalline silicon-containing layer is formed on the insulating layer. The substrate is then subjected to a low temperature plasma assisted oxidation to form recessed oxide isolation areas in the exposed regions of the substrate, with minimal encroachment under the patterned polycrystalline silicon-containing layer. The patterned polycrystalline silicon-containing layer acts as a mask, without itself being oxidized. Low temperature recessed oxide isolation regions may thereby be formed, without "bird's beak" formation. Maximum Areal Density Bipolar and Field Effect Transistor (MADFET) devices may be formed, using the patterned polycrystalline silicon-containing layer as a device contact if desired.