Patent ID: 8878152

Claim:
A nonvolatile memory element, comprising: a first layer operable as an electrode layer and formed above a substrate; a second layer operable as a variable resistance layer and disposed between the first layer and a third layer operable as an electrode layer; a fourth layer that is operable as a first oxygen barrier layer disposed between the first layer and the substrate, the fourth layer being configured to prevent the depletion of oxygen vacancies from the first layer; and a fifth layer that is operable as a second oxygen barrier layer disposed above the third layer, the fifth layer being operable to prevent the depletion of oxygen vacancies from the third layer, wherein the fourth layer and the fifth layer comprise a material having an amorphous structure, the material comprising amorphous silicon and refractory metal silicon carbides, wherein the fourth layer interfaces a bottom surface of the first layer, wherein the fourth layer comprises a sixth layer that is operable as a sacrificial layer and comprises a material that is more reactive with oxygen than a material in the second layer, and wherein the fifth layer interfaces a top surface of the third layer such that the first layer, second layer, and third layer are formed between the fourth layer and the fifth layer.