Resistive switching WOx-Au core-shell nanowires with unexpected nonwetting stability even when submerged under water

The resistive switching (RS) characteristics of a tungsten oxide (WO _x)-Au core-shell nanowire device array is demonstrated for the first time. In addition to the stable bipolar RS characteristics, the nanowire structure of our RS devices provides superhydrophobic properties. The superhydrophobic RS nanowires repelled water that was poured over, such that the device was protected from failure by water contact-driven leakage currents. Moreover, surprisingly, the devices still work even with when the device is submerged underwater.