Surface Morphology of MBE-grown GaN on GaAs(001) as Function of the N/Ga-ratio


O. Zsebök, J.V. Thordson, T.G. Andersson
Chalmers University of Technology

This article was received on Tuesday, June 23, 1998 and accepted on Monday, August 24, 1998.

Abstract

Molecular beam epitaxy growth utilising an RF-plasma nitrogen source was used to study surface reconstruction and surface morphology of GaN on GaAs (001) at 580 °C. While both the nitrogen flow and plasma excitation power were constant, the grown layers were characterised as a function of Ga-flux. In the initial growth stage a (3x3) surface reconstruction was observed. This surface periodicity only lasted up to a maximum thickness of 2.5 ML, followed by a transition to the unreconstructed surface. Samples grown under N-rich, Ga-rich and stoichiometric conditions were characterised by high-resolution scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. We found that the smoothest surfaces were provided by the N/Ga-ratio giving the thickest layer at the (3x3)=>(1x1) transition. The defect formation at the GaN/GaAs interface also depended on the N/Ga-flux ratio.

Outline

  • Introduction
  • Experimental
  • Results and discussion
  • Conclusion
  • Linked Pages

    Cite this article as: MRS Internet J. Nitride Semicond. Res. 3, 14(1998).

    last updated Monday, August 24, 1998 5:44:18 PM.

    © 1998 The Materials Research Society MRS Internet Journal of Nitride Semiconductor Research
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