Optimizing TCAD Model and Temperature-Dependent Analysis of Pt/AlN Schottky Barrier Diodes for High-Power and High-Temperature Applications

Abstract

This research presents a comprehensive investigation and optimization of the Pt/AlN Schottky Barrier diode (SBD) using technology computer-aided design (TCAD) modeling. The study explores the electrical characteristics of AlN SBDs with various metal contacts, including Aluminum (Al), Silver (Ag), Tungsten (W), Gold (Au), Nickel (Ni), and Platinum (Pt). Through the comparative analyses of different metal/AlN Schottky contacts, the Pt/AlN structure emerges as the most promising due to its superior barrier height and lower leakage current. At [Formula: see text]K, the diode demonstrates a barrier height of 2.72[Formula: see text]V, a nearly ideal leakage current of 0.046[Formula: see text]pA, and a breakdown voltage of 363[Formula: see text]V. The research extends to examining the temperature-dependent electrical behavior of Pt/AlN Schottky diodes, particularly for high-power and high-temperature applications. Analysis carried out across temperatures ranging from [Formula: see text]K to [Formula: see text]K reveals a trend of increasing ON resistance and consistently lower leakage current with rising temperature. Importantly, the study indicates that the impact of temperature on the barrier height and breakdown voltage of the diode is negligible, thus rendering it suitable for high-temperature operation. Leveraging the unique properties of AlN as an ultra-wide bandgap material within the III-V compound semiconductor family, this research provides valuable insights into the potential applications of Pt/AlN Schottky contact. The study highlights that the Pt/AlN Schottky contact is effective not only for high-power, high-temperature SBDs but also as superior metal/semiconductor gate contacts for field-effect transistors (FETs). Their suitability is attributed to their ability to handle high voltages, minimize reverse leakage current, and demonstrate improved thermal stability.