Highly secure all-printed Physically Unclonable Function (PUF) electronic device based on a nanomaterial network

About this technology

Overview

Assets are traditionally secured so important information can only be accessed when a key is placed in a lock (physical or electronic). Given the tremendous increase in the number of devices in the era of Internet of Things (IoT), direct access between things without human intervention is ideal. IoT related devices require unique identification codes that can be safely stored for security and that are resistant to physical attacks and exposure to harsh environments. As a solution, NASA Ames has developed a Physically Unclonable Function (PUF) electronic device using an all-printed nanomaterial network , such as a Carbon Nanotube (CNT) network. The invention leverages the intrinsic, random, and unique features of CNTs in a network for authentication, which can be used as a secret, stable, and robust key for high-level hardware security.