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Dynamics of Metal-SiOx and SiOx–Si Interfaces and the Associated Instabilities In Practical Metal/Insulator/Semiconductor Structures
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 February 2011
Abstract
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy and ellipsometry measurements were performed at Cr-SiOx, and Yb-SiOx interfaces, which are being considered for metal/insulator/semiconductor (MIS) solar cell applications. These measurements have led to a knowledge of instability mechanisms associated with MIS solar cells. The dynamics of the metal-oxide interface reduce the effective thickness of the insulating SiOx layer. Typically, in a 3 week period after fabrication the oxide thickness decreases by about 2 Å for ytterbium MIS structures and by less than 1 Å for chromium MIS structures. A structural equilibrium is reached thereafter. To explore further the dependence of MIS Schottky barrier heights on oxide thickness variations (from about 5 to 20 Å) a comprehensive charge balance analysis was performed at a general MIS interface. This theoretical study supports experimental data on barrier heights and also on instabilities. In addition, the application of the theoretical model to the experimental barrier heights has yielded quantitative information regarding the density of interface states at the SiOx,–Si interface.
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- Copyright © Materials Research Society 1982