Papers by Keyword: Silicon p-n Junction

Abstract: We have studied the electrical properties of Si p-n junction diodes by deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) measurements. The p-n junctions were developed on a Phosphorus doped Si by depositing Al and annealing at various temperatures. In order to confirm junction formation, current-voltage and capacitance-voltage measurements were made. Two deep levels at Ec-0.17 eV (E1) and Ec-0.44 eV (E2) were observed in the DLTS spectrum. These traps have been characterized by their capture cross-section, activation energy level and trap density. On the basis of these parameters, level E1 can be assigned as V-O complex and E2 as P-V complex. These traps are related to the growth of n-Si wafer and not due to Al diffusion.

Abstract: This paper aims at reviewing the possibilities of using p-n junction diodes for lifetime and defect analysis in semiconductor materials. In a first part, the theoretical basis of lifetime extraction based on p-n junction current-voltage and capacitance-voltage characteristics will be discussed. In the next parts, these methods will be applied to different cases relevant for advanced semiconductor materials and device processing. First, the impact of the initial interstitial oxygen content and thermal pre-treatment of Czochralski silicon substrates on the carrier generation and recombination lifetime is discussed. A comparison will also be made with epitaxial and Float-Zone silicon. In a next part, the impact of proton-irradiation damage on the diode behavior will be presented. In the final part, the application of the technique on SiGe and Ge based p-n junctions is described. Whenever possible and useful, the information extracted from p-n junction characteristics will be compared with direct lifetime measurements using microwave techniques. Additional defect information has also been gained from other well-known techniques like Deep- Level Transient Spectroscopy (DLTS), Electron-Beam-Induced Current (EBIC), etc and will be correlated with the p-n junction results. The review is wrapped up in a summary followed by an outlook on future evolution and requirements.