Optimization of AlAs/AlGaAs quantum well heterostructures on on-axis and misoriented GaAs (111)B

Abstract

We report systematic growth optimization of high Al-content AlGaAs, AlAs, and associated modulation-doped quantum well (QW) heterostructures on on-axis and misoriented GaAs (111)B by molecular beam epitaxy. Growth temperatures T G > 690 °C and low As 4 fluxes close to group III-rich growth significantly suppress twin defects in high-Al content AlGaAs on on-axis GaAs (111)B, as quantified by atomic force and transmission electron microscopy as well as x-ray diffraction. Mirror-smooth and defect-free AlAs with pronounced step-flow morphology was further achieved by growth on 2° misoriented GaAs (111)B toward [0 1 1] and [2 1 1 ] orientations. Successful fabrication of modulation-doped AlAs QW structures on these misoriented substrates yielded record electron mobilities (at 1.15 K) in excess of 13 000 cm 2/Vs at sheet carrier densities of 5 × 10 11cm -2. © 2012 American Institute of Physics.