Spatially resolved In and As distributions in InGaAs/GaP and InGaAs/GaAs quantum dot systems

J. Shen, Y. Song, M. L. Lee, J. J. Cha

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

InGaAs quantum dots (QDs) on GaP are promising for monolithic integration of optoelectronics with Si technology. To understand and improve the optical properties of InGaAs/GaP QD systems, detailed measurements of the QD atomic structure as well as the spatial distributions of each element at high resolution are crucial. This is because the QD band structure, band alignment, and optical properties are determined by the atomic structure and elemental composition. Here, we directly measure the inhomogeneous distributions of In and As in InGaAs QDs grown on GaAs and GaP substrates at the nanoscale using energy dispersive x-ray spectral mapping in a scanning transmission electron microscope. We find that the In distribution is broader on GaP than on GaAs, and as a result, the QDs appear to be In-poor using a GaP matrix. Our findings challenge some of the assumptions made for the concentrations and distributions of In within InGaAs/GaAs or InGaAs/GaP QD systems and provide detailed structural and elemental information to modify the current band structure understanding. In particular, the findings of In deficiency and inhomogeneous distribution in InGaAs/GaP QD systems help to explain photoluminescence spectral differences between InGaAs/GaAs and InGaAs/GaP QD systems.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number465702
JournalNanotechnology
Volume25
Issue number46
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 21 2014
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • InGaAs
  • chemical mapping
  • quantum dots

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Bioengineering
  • Chemistry(all)
  • Materials Science(all)
  • Mechanics of Materials
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Spatially resolved In and As distributions in InGaAs/GaP and InGaAs/GaAs quantum dot systems'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this