Hybrid slime mould-based system for unconventional computing

Abstract

Physarum polycephalum is considered to be promising for the realization of unconventional computational systems. In this work, we present results of three slime mould-based systems. We have demonstrated the possibility of transporting biocompatible microparticles using attractors, repellents and a DEFLECTOR. The latter is an external tool that enables to conduct Physarum motion. We also present interactions between slime mould and conducting polymers, resulting in a variation of their colour and conductivity. Finally, incorporation of the Physarum into the organic memristive device resulted in a variation of its electrical characteristics due to the slime mould internal activity.

Keywords:

• slime mould
• Physarum polycephalum
• polyaniline
• microparticles

Additional information

Funding

This work is supported by the Future and Emerging Technologies (FET) programme within the Seventh Framework Programme for Research of the European Commission, under the Collaborative project PhyChip [grant agreement number 316366].