RRAM Physical Unclonable Functions: Compact Modeling, Array Design, and Optimal Control Schemes for Security Applications

K. Ber (IMIO WUT, Poland), P. Wiśniewski, P. Jeżak, A. Małkowski (CEZAMAT, Poland), K. Sobolewski, A. Pawłowski, J. Ślubowski (IMIO WUT, Poland), M. Jarosik (CEZAMAT, Poland), T. Borejko (IMiO, Poland), W. Pleskacz (IMIO WUT, Poland)

In this work, we present a comprehensive study of Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) implemented using Resistive Random-Access Memory (RRAM) technology. AlOx-based RRAM devices were fabricated and electrically characterized, and the resulting data were used to develop a compact device model. Leveraging the inherent stochastic switching behavior of RRAM as a source of entropy, we designed a PUF primitive based on a 1T1R memory cell array, which was evaluated through circuit-level simulation. The proposed architecture demonstrates strong performance across the three core PUF security metrics (uniqueness, uniformity, and reliability) confirming its robustness and suitability for hardware security applications. These results establish RRAM-based PUFs as a promising candidate for integration into next-generation cybersecurity systems. Authors evaluate different programming and readout schemes optimized for selected technology and security application.