GeSi Infrared Detectors Using Selective Deposition

Abstract

AbstractHeterojunction p++ GeSi / Si internal photoemission (HIP) detectors deposited by ultra high vacuum chemical vapor deposition (UHV/CVD) were investigated as alternatives to silicide Schottky-barrier type detectors for infrared focal plane arrays. HIP structures were grown using SiH4, GeH4, and B2H6 source gases on (100) p- Si substrates patterned with thermal oxide windows. Selective epitaxy was maintained over a range of boron concentrations (6×1019 – 6.5×1020 cm-3) and Ge fractions (0.38–0.50), and a maximum selective thickness of ~300Å was determined for silicon growth at 550°C. These structures were fabricated into IR detectors using techniques compatible with standard Si focal plane array processing technology. Photoresponse data were analyzed according to the modified Fowler equation, indicating cut-off wavelengths of 5–12 (μm) and Cl values of 8–21 (%/eV) depending on sample parameters. I(V) characteristics were also measured at various temperatures, yielding electrical barrier heights consistent with optical measurements.