Electronic properties of InP (001)/HfO2 (001) interface: Band offsets and oxygen dependence

Abstract

Using ab-initio methods, atomic structures and electronic properties of InP (001)/HfO2 (001) interface are studied within the framework of density functional theory. We examine the InP/HfO2 model interface electronic structures under varying oxidation conditions. The effects of indium and phosphorous concentrations on interfacial bonding, defect states, band offsets, and the thermodynamic stability at the interface are also investigated. The origin of interfacial gap states in InP (001)/HfO2 (001) interface are proposed, mainly from the P-rich oxides, which is validated by our experimental work. This highlights the importance of surface passivation prior to high-κ deposition based on the in situ spectroscopic results of atomic layer deposition of HfO2 on InP. © 2014 AIP Publishing LLC.