Band-gap and k.p. parameters for GaAlN and GaInN alloys

Abstract

Using a semi-empirical pseudopotential method, a set of band-structure calculations are performed on a range of GaInN and GaAlN alloys in both the zinc-blende and wurtzite structures. Pseudopotentials for the bulk materials are described by suitable V(q) functions, and these are used to construct the alloy pseudopotentials. The band gap as a function of alloy composition is studied, and it is found that there is no significant bowing in the case of GaAlN. The bowing is larger for GaInN, although heavily dependent on the strain present. A more detailed study of the wurtzite alloys is carried out for low Al and In fractions. Wurtzite k·p parameters for several alloys at concentrations commonly used in devices are obtained from the semi-empirical band structure using a Monte Carlo fitting procedure. © 1999 American Institute of Physics.