Data for: "Cathodoluminescence studies of chevron features in semi-polar (11-22) InGaN/GaN multiple quantum well structures"

Dataset

Description

This dataset provides the experimental data used to generate the figures in the paper entitled "Cathodoluminescence studies of chevron features in semi-polar (11-22) InGaN/GaN multiple quantum well structures".

The cathodoluminescence (CL) data discussed and presented in the paper was recorded using a variable pressure field emission scanning electron microscope (SEM, FEI Quanta 250) which is equipped with a custom-built CL hyperspectral imaging system. The CL system collects the emitted light at an angle of 45° with respect to the incident electron beam using a Cassegrain reflecting objective. The light is then dispersed using a 125 mm focal length spectrograph (Oriel MS125) and detected using an electron-multiplying charge-coupled device (Andor Newton). As the electron beam scans across the sample surface, a whole CL spectrum is recorded per pixel building up the 3D hyperspectral data set. 2D CL images can then be extracted from the hyperspectral data set, such as peak energy, intensity or half width.

The electron beam-induced current (EBIC) is acquired using a Stanford pre-amplifier connected to the output of an LED. The pre-amp is connected to the computer via an analogue-to-digital converter, and a value for the voltage (from which the current can be calculated) is measured for every pixel in the map. The EBIC and CL are recorded simultaneously.

Characterisation of the surface morphology was performed using atomic force microscopy (AFM, Bruker Dimension with Icon scanner) in PeakForce tapping mode with ScanAsyst Air probes.

Abstract of the paper:

Epitaxial overgrowth of semi-polar III-nitride layers and devices often leads to arrowhead-shaped surface features, referred to as chevrons. We report on a study into the optical, structural and electrical properties of these features occurring in two very different semi-polar structures, a blue-emitting multiple quantum well (MQW) structure and an amber-emitting light-emitting diode (LED). Cathodoluminescence (CL) hyperspectral imaging has highlighted shifts in their emission energy, occurring in the region of the chevron. These variations are due to different semi-polar planes introduced in the chevron arms resulting in a lack of uniformity in the InN incorporation across samples, and the disruption of the structure which could cause a narrowing of the QWs in this region. Atomic force microscopy has revealed that chevrons can penetrate over 150 nm into the sample, and quench light emission from the active layers. The dominance of non-radiative recombination in the chevron region was exposed by simultaneous measurement of CL and the electron beam-induced current (EBIC). Overall these results provide an overview of the nature and impact of chevrons on the luminescence of semi-polar devices.
Date made available23 Apr 2018
PublisherUniversity of Strathclyde

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