Characterization of deep levels in n-type and semi-insulating 4H-SiC epitaxial layers by thermally stimulated current spectroscopy

Abstract

We have investigated deep level centers in n-type and semi-insulating (SI) 4H-SiC epitaxial layers by thermally stimulated current (TSC) spectroscopy. The epitaxial layers were grown using chemical vapor deposition utilizing a dichlorosilane precursor. Both epitaxial layers exhibited relatively shallow levels related to Al, B, L- and D-centers. A deep level center with an activation energy of 1.1 eV, peaked at ∼400 K, was detected in the n-type epitaxial layer and correlated with the IL2 level and the 1.1 eV center in a high purity bulk SI 4H-SiC. The TSC spectra of the SI epitaxial layer was dominated by the peaks at 525–585 K that we attributed to intrinsic defects and their complexes with energy levels close to the middle of the bandgap. The TSC spectra of SI epitaxial layer exhibited peaks with different current polarity which is explained by thermoelectric effect and the built-in electric field reversal. The results of the transfer length method measurements of the SI epitaxial layer and the room temperature current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of both epitaxial layers are also reported.