WO2021260850A1 - 窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子及びその製造方法 - Google Patents
窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子及びその製造方法 Download PDFInfo
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- H01L33/00—Semiconductor devices having potential barriers specially adapted for light emission; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof
- H01L33/02—Semiconductor devices having potential barriers specially adapted for light emission; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies
- H01L33/04—Semiconductor devices having potential barriers specially adapted for light emission; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies with a quantum effect structure or superlattice, e.g. tunnel junction
- H01L33/06—Semiconductor devices having potential barriers specially adapted for light emission; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies with a quantum effect structure or superlattice, e.g. tunnel junction within the light emitting region, e.g. quantum confinement structure or tunnel barrier
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- H01L33/0062—Processes for devices with an active region comprising only III-V compounds
- H01L33/0066—Processes for devices with an active region comprising only III-V compounds with a substrate not being a III-V compound
- H01L33/007—Processes for devices with an active region comprising only III-V compounds with a substrate not being a III-V compound comprising nitride compounds
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- H01L33/005—Processes
- H01L33/0062—Processes for devices with an active region comprising only III-V compounds
- H01L33/0075—Processes for devices with an active region comprising only III-V compounds comprising nitride compounds
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- H01L33/025—Physical imperfections, e.g. particular concentration or distribution of impurities
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- H01L33/16—Semiconductor devices having potential barriers specially adapted for light emission; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies with a particular crystal structure or orientation, e.g. polycrystalline, amorphous or porous
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- H01L33/02—Semiconductor devices having potential barriers specially adapted for light emission; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies
- H01L33/16—Semiconductor devices having potential barriers specially adapted for light emission; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies with a particular crystal structure or orientation, e.g. polycrystalline, amorphous or porous
- H01L33/18—Semiconductor devices having potential barriers specially adapted for light emission; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies with a particular crystal structure or orientation, e.g. polycrystalline, amorphous or porous within the light emitting region
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- H01L33/26—Materials of the light emitting region
- H01L33/30—Materials of the light emitting region containing only elements of Group III and Group V of the Periodic Table
- H01L33/32—Materials of the light emitting region containing only elements of Group III and Group V of the Periodic Table containing nitrogen
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- H01L33/20—Semiconductor devices having potential barriers specially adapted for light emission; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies with a particular shape, e.g. curved or truncated substrate
- H01L33/24—Semiconductor devices having potential barriers specially adapted for light emission; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof characterised by the semiconductor bodies with a particular shape, e.g. curved or truncated substrate of the light emitting region, e.g. non-planar junction
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device having a light emitting device structure in which an n-type layer, an active layer, and a p-type layer made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor having a wurtzite structure are laminated in the vertical direction, and a method for manufacturing the same. ..
- nitride semiconductor light emitting devices in which a light emitting device structure composed of a plurality of nitride semiconductor layers is formed by epitaxial growth on a substrate such as sapphire.
- the nitride semiconductor layer is represented by the general formula Al 1-x-y Ga x In y N (0 ⁇ x ⁇ 1,0 ⁇ y ⁇ 1,0 ⁇ x + y ⁇ 1).
- the light emitting device structure of the light emitting diode has a double hetero structure in which an active layer made of a nitride semiconductor layer is sandwiched between two clad layers, an n-type nitride semiconductor layer and a p-type nitride semiconductor layer.
- the active layer is an AlGaN-based semiconductor
- the bandgap energy can be obtained by adjusting the AlN molar fraction (also referred to as Al composition ratio), and the bandgap energy (about 3.4 eV and about 6.2 eV) that GaN and AlN can take.
- an ultraviolet light emitting element having an emission wavelength of about 200 nm to about 365 nm can be obtained.
- a forward current from the p-type nitride semiconductor layer toward the n-type nitride semiconductor layer the bandgap energy due to the recombination of carriers (electrons and holes) in the active layer was responded to. Light emission occurs.
- a p electrode is provided on the p-type nitride semiconductor layer, and an n electrode is provided on the n-type nitride semiconductor layer.
- the active layer is an AlGaN-based semiconductor
- the n-type nitride semiconductor layer and the p-type nitride semiconductor layer sandwiching the active layer are composed of an AlGaN-based semiconductor having a higher AlN mole fraction than the active layer.
- the p-type nitride semiconductor layer having a high AlN molar fraction to form good ohmic contact with the p electrode
- the p-type having a low AlN molar fraction is formed on the uppermost layer of the p-type nitride semiconductor layer.
- a p-type contact layer capable of making good ohmic contact with a p-electrode made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor (specifically, p-GaN). Since this p-type contact layer has an AlN mole fraction smaller than that of the AlGaN-based semiconductor constituting the active layer, the ultraviolet rays emitted from the active layer toward the p-type nitride semiconductor layer side are absorbed by the p-type contact layer. , Cannot be effectively taken out of the element. Therefore, a general ultraviolet light emitting diode whose active layer is an AlGaN-based semiconductor adopts an element structure as schematically shown in FIG. 14, and ultraviolet rays emitted from the active layer toward the n-type nitride semiconductor layer side. Is effectively taken out to the outside of the device (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 below).
- a general ultraviolet light emitting diode is an n-type AlGaN-based diode on a template 102 formed by depositing an AlGaN-based semiconductor layer 101 (for example, an AlN layer) on a substrate 100 such as a sapphire substrate.
- the semiconductor layer 103, the active layer 104, the p-type AlGaN-based semiconductor layer 105, and the p-type contact layer 106 are sequentially deposited, and the active layer 104, the p-type AlGaN-based semiconductor layer 105, and a part of the p-type contact layer 106 are partially deposited.
- the n-type AlGaN-based semiconductor layer 103 is removed by etching until it is exposed, and the n-electrode 107 is formed on the exposed surface of the n-type AlGaN-based semiconductor layer 103 and the p-electrode 108 is formed on the surface of the p-type contact layer 106. Ru.
- the active layer has a multiple quantum well structure, an electron block layer is provided on the active layer, and the like. ..
- composition modulation occurs due to segregation of Ga in the clad layer composed of the n-type AlGaN-based semiconductor layer, and a layered region having a locally low AlN mole fraction extending diagonally with respect to the clad layer surface is formed.
- Patent Document 3 Non-Patent Document 1, 2, etc. below. Since the bandgap energy of the AlGaN-based semiconductor layer having a locally low AlN mole fraction is also locally reduced, in Patent Document 3, the carriers in the clad layer are likely to be localized in the layered region, and the active layer is liable to be localized. It has been reported that a low-resistance current path can be provided and the luminous efficiency of the ultraviolet light emitting diode can be improved.
- An ultraviolet light emitting device made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor is manufactured on a substrate such as a sapphire substrate by a well-known epitaxial growth method such as an organometallic compound vapor deposition (MOVPE) method.
- MOVPE organometallic compound vapor deposition
- Drift of the crystal growth device occurs due to changes in the effective temperature of the crystal growth site due to deposits such as trays and chamber walls. For this reason, in order to suppress drift, conventionally, an experienced person examines the growth history and slightly changes the set temperature and the composition of the raw material gas, or fixes the growth schedule for a certain period and cleans it. Although the maintenance of the above is carried out in the same way for a certain period of time, it is difficult to completely eliminate the drift.
- the present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device capable of stably producing with suppressed characteristic fluctuations caused by drift of a crystal growth apparatus or the like. To do.
- the present invention is a nitride semiconductor including a light emitting device structure portion in which an n-type layer, an active layer, and a p-type layer made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor having a wurtzite structure are laminated in the vertical direction. It is an ultraviolet light emitting element
- the n-type layer is composed of an n-type AlGaN-based semiconductor.
- the active layer arranged between the n-type layer and the p-type layer has a quantum well structure including one or more well layers made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor.
- the p-type layer is composed of a p-type AlGaN-based semiconductor, and the p-type layer is composed of a p-type AlGaN-based semiconductor.
- Each semiconductor layer in the n-type layer and the active layer is an epitaxial growth layer having a surface on which a multi-stage terrace parallel to the (0001) plane is formed.
- the n-type layer is a layered region having a locally low AlN mole fraction existing uniformly dispersed in the n-type layer, and the AlGaN composition ratio is Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 having an integer ratio. It has a plurality of first Ga enriched regions including an n-type AlGaN region.
- Each stretching direction of the first Ga enriched region on the first plane orthogonal to the upper surface of the n-type layer is inclined with respect to the line of intersection between the upper surface of the n-type layer and the first plane.
- the boundary region portion between adjacent terraces of the multi-tiered terrace of the well layer has a second Ga enriched region locally low in AlN mole fraction within the same well layer.
- a nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device characterized in that an AlGaN region having an AlGaN composition ratio of an integer ratio of Al 1 Ga 2 N 3 exists in the second Ga enriched region.
- the present invention includes a nitride having a light emitting device structure in which an n-type layer made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor having a wurtzite structure, an active layer, and a p-type layer are laminated in the vertical direction.
- This is a method for manufacturing a semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device.
- the n-type layer of an n-type AlGaN-based semiconductor is epitaxially grown on a base portion including a sapphire substrate having a main surface inclined by a predetermined angle with respect to the (0001) surface, and the surface of the n-type layer is (0001).
- the first step to expose the multi-tiered terrace parallel to the surface The active layer having a quantum well structure including one or more well layers composed of AlGaN-based semiconductors is epitaxially grown on the n-type layer, and a multi-stage terrace parallel to the (0001) plane on the surface of the well layer.
- the second step to express It has a third step of forming the p-type layer of the p-type AlGaN-based semiconductor on the active layer by epitaxial growth. In the first step, it is a layered region having a locally low AlN mole fraction existing uniformly dispersed in the n-type layer, and the AlGaN composition ratio becomes Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 having an integer ratio.
- a plurality of first Ga-enriched regions including the n-type AlGaN region are grown so as to extend diagonally upward.
- the second step while forming a second Ga-enriched region having a low AlN mole fraction locally in the same well layer in the boundary region portion between adjacent terraces of the multi-stage terrace of the well layer.
- a method for manufacturing a nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device characterized in that an AlGaN region having an AlGaN composition ratio of an integer ratio of Al 1 Ga 2 N 3 is grown in the second Ga enriched region.
- the AlGaN-based semiconductor is represented by the general formula Al 1-x Ga x N (0 ⁇ x ⁇ 1), and the bandgap energy can be the lower limit and the upper limit of the bandgap energy that GaN and AlN can take, respectively. Within the range, impurities such as Group 3 elements such as B or In or Group 5 elements such as P may be contained in a trace amount. Further, the GaN-based semiconductor is a nitride semiconductor basically composed of Ga and N, but contains a small amount of impurities such as Group 3 elements such as Al, B or In or Group 5 elements such as P. You may.
- the AlN-based semiconductor is a nitride semiconductor basically composed of Al and N, but contains a small amount of impurities such as Group 3 elements such as Ga, B or In, or Group 5 elements such as P. You may. Therefore, in the present application, the GaN-based semiconductor and the AlN-based semiconductor are each a part of the AlGaN-based semiconductor.
- the n-type or p-type AlGaN-based semiconductor is an AlGaN-based semiconductor doped with Si, Mg, or the like as a donor or acceptor impurity.
- AlGaN-based semiconductors not specified as p-type and n-type mean undoped AlGaN-based semiconductors, but even if they are undoped, they contain a small amount of donor or acceptor impurities that are inevitably mixed. obtain.
- the first plane is not an exposed surface specifically formed in the manufacturing process of the n-type layer or a boundary surface with another semiconductor layer, but a virtual surface extending in the n-type layer in parallel in the vertical direction. It is a flat surface.
- the AlGaN-based semiconductor layer, the GaN-based semiconductor layer, and the AlN-based semiconductor layer are semiconductor layers composed of an AlGaN-based semiconductor, a GaN-based semiconductor, and an AlN-based semiconductor, respectively.
- semi-stable AlGaN which will be described later, which are formed in the second Ga-enriched region, characteristic fluctuations caused by drift of the crystal growth apparatus are suppressed, and a nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device having the desired light emission characteristics can be obtained. It is expected that stable production will be possible.
- a ternary mixed crystal such as AlGaN is a crystal state in which group 3 elements (Al and Ga) are randomly mixed, and is approximately described by "random non-uniformity".
- group 3 elements Al and Ga
- the covalent radius of Al and the covalent radius of Ga are different, the higher the symmetry of the atomic arrangement of Al and Ga in the crystal structure, the more stable the structure is.
- An AlGaN-based semiconductor having a Wurtzite structure may have two types of arrays, a random array without symmetry and a stable symmetric array.
- a state in which the symmetric array becomes dominant appears.
- a periodic symmetrical array structure of Al and Ga is expressed.
- the mixed crystal mole fraction is slightly stable in terms of energy, and mass transfer (mass transfer). It is possible to prevent the proliferation of places where Ga, which is easy to easily increase, increases extremely. That is, by utilizing the property of "quasi-stable AlGaN" formed in the first Ga-enriched region in the n-type layer, as an AlGaN-based semiconductor, the variation in the mixed crystal mole fraction due to the drift of the crystal growth apparatus and the like.
- FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a 1-unit cell (2 monoatomic layers) in the c-axis direction of AlGaN.
- white circles indicate sites where group 3 element atoms (Al, Ga) are located, and black circles indicate sites where group 5 element atoms (N) are located.
- the site planes (A3 plane, B3 plane) of the Group 3 element and the site planes (A5 plane, B5 plane) of the Group 5 element shown by hexagons in FIG. 1 are both parallel to the (0001) plane.
- Each site on the A3 surface and the A5 surface (collectively, the A surface) has six sites at each vertex of the hexagon and one site at the center of the hexagon.
- Each site on the A plane overlaps in the c-axis direction
- each site on the B plane overlaps in the c-axis direction.
- the atom (N) at one site on the B5 plane is one of the atoms (Al, Ga) at the three sites on the A3 plane located above the B5 plane and one of the B3 planes located below the B5 plane.
- a four-coordinate bond is formed with the site atom (Al, Ga), and the one site atom (Al, Ga) on the B3 plane is the one site atom (N) on the B5 plane located above the B3 plane.
- each site of the A plane is the B plane. It does not overlap with each site in the c-axis direction.
- FIG. 2 shows the positional relationship between each site on the A plane and each site on the B plane as a plan view seen from the c-axis direction.
- each of the six vertices of the hexagon is shared by the other two adjacent hexagons on both sides A and B, and the central site is not shared with the other hexagons.
- FIG. 3 schematically shows the A3 plane and the B3 plane of the group 3 elements of the above five combinations. Ga is indicated by a black circle and Al is indicated by a white circle.
- Ga is located at the six vertex sites of the A3 surface, the six vertex sites of the B3 surface, and one central site, and is located at one central site of the A3 surface. Al is located.
- Ga is located at the three vertex sites of the A3 surface and the B3 surface and one central site
- Al is located at the three vertex sites of the A3 surface and the B3 surface. positioned.
- Ga is located at three vertex sites on the A3 surface, one center site, and three vertex sites on the B3 surface, and the three vertex sites on the A3 surface.
- Al is located at three vertex sites and one central site on the B3 surface.
- Ga is located at the three vertex sites of the A3 surface and the B3 surface
- Al is located at the three vertex sites of the A3 surface and the B3 surface and one central site. positioned. This is equivalent to swapping the positions of Al and Ga in the case of Al 1 Ga 2 N 3 shown in FIG. 3 (B).
- Ga is located at one central site of the A3 surface, and at the six vertex sites of the A3 surface, the six vertex sites of the B3 surface, and one central site. Al is located. This is equivalent to swapping the positions of Al and Ga in the case of Al 1 Ga 5 N 6 shown in FIG. 3 (A).
- FIGS. 3A to 3E assuming another hexagon whose center is moved to any one of the six vertices of the hexagon, Al or Ga is present at the six vertex sites of the A3 surface. It is equivalent to being located and having Al or Ga located at the three vertex sites and one central site of the A3 surface, and Al or Ga is located at one central site of the A3 surface. It can be seen that this is equivalent to the location of Al or Ga at the three vertex sites of the A3 surface. The same applies to the B3 surface. Further, in each of the drawings of FIGS. 3 (A), (C) and (E), the A3 surface and the B3 surface may be interchanged.
- the hexagonal site planes are repeatedly arranged in a honeycomb shape on the A3 plane and the B3 plane of FIGS. 3A to 3E, the direction parallel to the (0001) plane, for example, the [11-20] direction.
- the direction parallel to the (0001) plane for example, the [11-20] direction.
- x1 N is referred to as "first metastable AlGaN".
- the atomic arrangement of Al and Ga becomes a periodic symmetric arrangement, and becomes an energetically stable AlGaN.
- the site surface shown by the hexagon shown in FIG. 1 is expanded to a 2-unit cell (4 monoatomic layer)
- the site surface of the group 3 element (A3 surface, B3 surface) and the site surface of the group 5 element (A5) are expanded.
- these six AlGaN composition ratios 6) to 11) are a combination of two AlGaN composition ratios of the first metastable AlGaN, GaN and AlN located before and after the six AlGaN composition ratios, they are in the c-axis direction. Since the symmetry of AlGaN is likely to be disturbed, the stability is lower than that of the first metastable AlGaN, but the symmetry of the atomic arrangement of Al and Ga in the A3 plane and the B3 plane is the first metastable AlGaN. Since it is the same as, the stability is higher than that of AlGaN in a random asymmetric array state.
- x2 Ga 1-x2 N is referred to as "second metastable AlGaN" for convenience of explanation.
- the first and second metastable AlGaN have a stable structure due to the symmetry of the atomic arrangement of Al and Ga in the crystal structure.
- the first and second metastable AlGaN are collectively referred to as "metastable AlGaN".
- Ga is expected to move around at 1000 ° C. or higher even after the atom reaches the site on the crystal surface.
- Al is easily adsorbed on the surface, and movement after entering the site is considered to move to some extent, but it is strongly restricted.
- Al 1 Ga 5 N 6 of 1) above, Al 1 Ga 11 N 12 of 6) above, and Al 1 Ga 3 N 4 of 7) above are all AlN moles. Since the fraction is 25% or less and the composition ratio of Ga is high, the movement of Ga is intense at a growth temperature of around 1000 ° C, the symmetry of the atomic arrangement is disturbed, and the atomic arrangement of Al and Ga is close to a random state. Therefore, it is considered that the above-mentioned stability is lower than that of other metastable AlGaN.
- a multi-stage terrace is formed in which each semiconductor layer in the n-type layer and the active layer is parallel to the (0001) plane. Since it is an epitaxial growth layer having a surface, Ga, which easily moves mass in the n-type layer, moves on the terrace region and concentrates on the boundary region between adjacent terraces, so that AlN molars are compared with the terrace region. A region with a low fraction is formed.
- the boundary region is stretched diagonally upward with respect to the (0001) plane along with the epitaxial growth of the n-type AlGaN layer of the n-type layer, so that the layered region having a low AlN mole fraction is locally contained in the n-type layer. It is formed evenly dispersed in.
- the layered region can be a first Ga-enriched region including an n-type AlGaN region of metastable AlGaN having an AlGaN composition ratio of Al 1 Ga 1 N 2.
- metastable AlGaN having an AlGaN composition ratio of Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 in the first Ga enriched region
- fluctuations in the amount of Ga supplied into the first Ga enriched region are absorbed by the metastable AlGaN. Will be done. That is, in the first Ga enriched region, the metastable AlGaN increases when the Ga supply amount increases, and the metastable AlGaN decreases when the Ga supply amount decreases, and as a result, the AlN mole fraction in the first Ga enriched region. Fluctuations are suppressed.
- the AlGaN composition ratio is almost Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 (AlN mole fraction is 50%) by absorbing the fluctuation of the Ga supply amount due to the drift of the crystal growth apparatus and the like.
- Stable AlGaN is stably formed. That is, the fluctuation of the AlN mole fraction in the first Ga enriched region is suppressed with respect to the fluctuation of the Ga supply amount.
- a state of a random asymmetric array and a state of a regular symmetric array can usually coexist, so that the state of the first Ga enrichment region is regularly symmetric.
- a region of semi-stable AlGaN having an AlN mole fraction of 50% in an array state is stably formed, and a region in which the AlN mole fraction slightly fluctuates from 50% (for example, about 0 to 3%) is mixed. do. Therefore, the AlN mole fraction in the first Ga enriched region is concentrated and distributed in the vicinity of the AlN mole fraction (50%) of the semi-stable AlGaN having an AlGaN composition ratio of Al 1 Ga 1 N 2.
- the carriers in the n-type layer have bandgap energy in the n-type layer.
- the current can preferentially flow stably in the first Ga-enriched region in the n-type layer, and the characteristic fluctuation of the nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device can be suppressed.
- each semiconductor layer in the n-type layer and the active layer is an epitaxial growth layer having a surface on which a multi-stage terrace parallel to the (0001) plane is formed, it is between adjacent terraces of the multi-stage terraces of the well layer.
- the boundary region is an inclined region inclined with respect to the (0001) plane connecting the adjacent terraces (see Non-Patent Documents 1 and 2 above).
- the inclined region has a structure in which a large number of steps (steps of one unit cell) and macro steps (steps of a plurality of unit cells) are gathered, and the (0001) surface that appears stepwise in the inclined region is It is distinguished from the terrace surface of the multi-tiered terrace.
- the terrace on the upper surface of the well layer moves laterally with respect to the terrace on the lower surface of the well layer. It is thicker than the film thickness of the terrace area other than the inclined area.
- the second Ga having a low AlN mole fraction is locally formed in the inclined region in the well layer. An enriched area is formed.
- a metastable AlGaN region having an AlGaN composition ratio of Al 1 Ga 2 N 3 is formed in the second Ga enriched region.
- metastable AlGaN having an AlGaN composition ratio of Al 1 Ga 2 N 3 in the second Ga enriched region
- fluctuations in the amount of Ga supplied into the second Ga enriched region are absorbed by the metastable AlGaN. Will be done. That is, in the second Ga enriched region, the metastable AlGaN increases when the Ga supply amount increases, and the metastable AlGaN decreases when the Ga supply amount decreases, and as a result, the AlN mole fraction in the second Ga enriched region. Fluctuations are suppressed.
- the AlGaN composition ratio is Al 1 Ga 2 N 3 (AlN mole fraction is 33.3% (AlN mole fraction) by absorbing the fluctuation of the Ga supply amount due to the drift of the crystal growth apparatus and the like.
- the metastable AlGaN of 1/3)) is stably formed. That is, the fluctuation of the AlN mole fraction in the second Ga enriched region is suppressed with respect to the fluctuation of the Ga supply amount.
- the AlN mole fraction of 1/3 is expressed as a percentage, it is approximately expressed as 33.3%.
- a state of a random asymmetric array and a state of a regular symmetry array can usually coexist, so that the state of the second Ga enrichment region is regularly symmetric.
- a region of semi-stable AlGaN having an AlN mole fraction of 33.3% in an array state is stably formed, and the AlN mole fraction slightly fluctuates from 33.3% (for example, about 0 to 3%). Areas are mixed.
- the bandgap energy in the inclined region becomes smaller than that in the terrace region, and carrier localization is likely to occur as in the first Ga-enriched region of the n-type layer. Therefore, the light emission in the well layer becomes more remarkable in the inclined region than in the terrace region.
- the above-mentioned non-patent documents 1 and 2 report similar contents for a well layer of an AlGaN-based semiconductor.
- the terrace regions of the well layer and the barrier layer are regions sandwiched between the terraces on the upper surface and the terraces on the lower surface of each layer in the c-axis direction. Therefore, the area other than the terrace areas of the well layer and the barrier layer becomes the boundary area (sloping area) of each layer.
- the multi-stage terrace formed by the epitaxial growth of the active layer is continuously formed on the multi-stage terrace formed by the epitaxial growth of the n-type layer. Therefore, the carriers (electrons) supplied to the well layer along the current path in the first Ga-enriched region are concentrated in the boundary region (inclined region) between adjacent terraces where light emission is concentrated in the well layer. Will be supplied.
- an n-type AlGaN region which is a semi-stable AlGaN having an AlN mole fraction of 50%, is stably formed in the first Ga-enriched region that predominantly exists in the layered region of the n-type layer, and further, a well.
- the AlGaN region which is a semi-stable AlGaN with an AlN mole fraction of 33.3%, is stably formed in the second Ga-enriched region in the inclined region of the layer, so that the well layer is stabilized in the inclined region.
- Carriers can be supplied, and fluctuations in characteristics such as luminous efficiency of the nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device can be suppressed.
- the AlN mole fraction of the n-type layer is 50% or more and the ultraviolet rays emitted from the well layer of the active layer pass through the n-type layer, it is possible to have an element structure in which the ultraviolet light emission is taken out from the n-type layer side.
- the AlN mole fraction outside the first Ga enrichment region of the n-type layer is in the range of 54% to 66%.
- the target value of the AlN mole fraction of the n-type layer is set within the range of 54% to 66%, and the first step is made. It is preferable to grow an n-type AlGaN region having an AlGaN composition ratio of an integer ratio of Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 in the 1 Ga enriched region.
- the AlN mole fraction outside the first Ga enrichment region of the n-type layer absorbs fluctuations in the Ga supply amount due to drift of the crystal growth apparatus and the like, and is 54% to 66%. Since it is within the range of, the AlN mole fraction difference between the first Ga enriched region and the n-type main body region is stably secured at 4% or more. Therefore, the carriers in the n-type layer are more stably localized in the first Ga-enriched region having a smaller bandgap energy than the n-type main body region, and the current is preferentially enriched in the first Ga in the n-type layer. The region can be stably flowed, and fluctuations in the characteristics of the nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device can be suppressed.
- the upper limit of the AlN mole fraction of the n-type main body region of the n-type layer and the upper limit of the target value of the AlN mole fraction of the n-type layer are defined as 66%, in the n-type layer, Semi-stable AlGaN having an AlGaN composition ratio of Al 2 Ga 1 N 3 is not predominantly formed. If the upper limit is 67% or more, the metastable AlGaN of Al 2 Ga 1 N 3 is stably formed in the n-type main body region, and the first Ga rich from the metastable AlGaN of Al 2 Ga 1 N 3.
- the nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device having the above characteristics has an AlN mole fraction in the range of 33.4% to 37% other than the boundary region portion of the well layer.
- the target value of the AlN mole fraction of the well layer is set within the range of 33.4% to 37%, and the above-mentioned method is performed. It is preferable to grow an AlGaN region having an AlGaN composition ratio of an integer ratio of Al 1 Ga 2 N 3 in the second Ga enriched region.
- the fluctuation range of the AlN mole fraction in the well layer is suppressed to 3.7% or less, and further, the AlN mole fraction is derived from the composition modulation generated from the region other than 33.3%. Even when the emission peaks overlap, a quantum well with a single peak can be formed in a pseudo manner, so that separation of the emission peaks in the emission spectrum is avoided.
- the active layer has a multiple quantum well structure including two or more well layers, and a barrier composed of an AlGaN-based semiconductor between the two well layers. It is preferable that a layer is present.
- the well layer made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor and the barrier layer made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor are alternately laminated by epitaxial growth. It is preferable to form the active layer having a multiple quantum well structure including two or more well layers, in which a multi-stage terrace parallel to the (0001) plane is exposed on each surface of the barrier layer and the well layer.
- the active layer has a multiple quantum well structure, and improvement in luminous efficiency can be expected as compared with the case where there is only one well layer.
- the barrier layer is made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor, and among the barrier layers located between the well layers of the two layers, at least the barrier layer on the p-type layer side is the barrier layer. It is more preferable that the boundary region portion between the adjacent terraces of the multi-tiered terrace has a third Ga-enriched region having a low AlN mole fraction locally in the same barrier layer.
- the barrier layer made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor when the barrier layer made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor is formed in the second step, the barrier layer located between the two well layers is formed.
- carrier localization can occur in the barrier layer as well as in the first Ga-enriched region of the n-type layer and the second Ga-enriched region of the well layer. Therefore, when supplying carriers (electrons) from the n-type layer toward the second Ga-enriched region of the boundary region (inclined region) between adjacent terraces where light emission is concentrated in the well layer, the n-type layer is the first. It can be efficiently performed via the 1 Ga-enriched region and the third Ga-enriched region of the barrier layer.
- the effective strength is large in the well layer on the p-type layer side, so that the third Ga enriched region is present in the barrier layer on the n-type layer side of the well layer.
- the above-mentioned carriers can be supplied to the well layer more efficiently.
- the third Ga enriched region of the barrier layer Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 and Al 2 Ga 1 N 3 having an AlGaN composition ratio of an integer ratio, It is preferable that there is an AlGaN region having Al 3 Ga 1 N 4 or Al 5 Ga 1 N 6.
- the method for manufacturing the nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device is described in the second step.
- the target value of the AlN mole fraction of the barrier layer is set in the range of 51% to 66%, and within the third Ga enriched region, the AlGaN composition ratio is set to Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 having an integer ratio.
- Grow or grow the AlGaN region 2 The target value of the AlN mole fraction of the barrier layer is set in the range of 68% to 74%, and within the third Ga enriched region, the AlGaN composition ratio is set to Al 2 Ga 1 N 3 having an integer ratio.
- the target value of the AlN mole fraction of the barrier layer is set in the range of 76% to 82%, and within the third Ga enriched region, the AlGaN composition ratio is set to Al 3 Ga 1 N 4 having an integer ratio.
- the AlGaN region that is 4) The target value of the AlN mole fraction of the barrier layer is set in the range of 85% to 90%, and the AlGaN composition ratio is set to Al 5 Ga 1 N 6 in the third Ga enrichment region. It is preferable to grow the AlGaN region that has become.
- the presence of metastable AlGaN in the third Ga-enriched region of the barrier layer causes the first Ga-enriched region of the n-type layer and the second Ga-enriched region of the well layer to be similar to the second Ga-enriched region. Fluctuations in the AlN mole fraction of the 3Ga-enriched region are suppressed, and a metastable AlGaN region is stably formed in the third Ga-enriched region. Therefore, the effect produced by the third Ga-enriched region of the barrier layer is more stably realized.
- the nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device having the above-mentioned characteristics further includes a base portion including a sapphire substrate, and the sapphire substrate has a main surface inclined by a predetermined angle with respect to the (0001) surface.
- the light emitting device structure is formed above the surface, and at least each semiconductor layer from the main surface of the sapphire substrate to the surface of the active layer forms a multi-stage terrace parallel to the (0001) plane. It is preferably an epitaxial growth layer having a sapphire surface.
- epitaxial growth can be performed so that a multi-step terrace is exposed on the surface of each layer from the main surface of the sapphire substrate to the surface of the active layer.
- a nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device having the above characteristics can be realized.
- the nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device having the above-mentioned characteristics and the method for manufacturing the nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device, the nitride semiconductor has the desired light emitting characteristics in which the characteristic fluctuation due to the drift of the crystal growth apparatus is suppressed. It is possible to stably provide an ultraviolet light emitting element.
- FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the positional relationship between each site on the A plane and each site on the B plane when viewed from the c-axis direction of the wurtzite crystal structure shown in FIG. 1.
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a main part schematically showing an example of the structure of a nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a main part schematically showing an example of the structure of a nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a main part schematically showing an example of a laminated structure of an active layer of a nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device shown in FIG.
- the graph which shows the relationship between the emission wavelength of a quantum well structure composed of an AlGaN well layer and an AlGaN barrier layer, the thickness of the well layer and the AlN mole fraction of the barrier layer.
- FIG. 5 is a plan view schematically showing an example of the structure when the nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device shown in FIG. 4 is viewed from the upper side of FIG. 4.
- HAADF-STEM image showing the cross-sectional structure in the n-type clad layer. In the HAADF-STEM image shown in FIG.
- FIG. 8 it is a figure which shows 6 measurement regions A to F which perform line analysis of the cross section TEM-EDX in an n-type clad layer.
- FIG. 1 shows the measurement result of the AlN mole fraction and the GaN mole fraction by the line analysis of the cross section TEM-EDX in the n-type clad layer in the measurement area F shown in FIG. SEM image showing the measurement region of AlN mole fraction by the CL method in the n-type clad layer.
- the nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device (hereinafter, simply abbreviated as “light emitting device”) according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
- the main parts are emphasized and the contents of the invention are schematically shown. Therefore, the dimensional ratio of each part is not necessarily the same as that of the actual element. The dimensional ratios are not the same.
- the light emitting element is a light emitting diode
- the light emitting element 1 of the present embodiment has a light emitting element structure including a base portion 10 including a sapphire substrate 11, a plurality of AlGaN-based semiconductor layers 21 to 25, a p electrode 26, and an n electrode 27.
- a unit 20 is provided.
- the light emitting element 1 is mounted (flip chip mounted) on a mounting base (sub-mount or the like) with the light emitting element structure portion 20 side (upper side in the drawing in FIG. 4) facing, and light is taken out.
- the direction is the base portion 10 side (lower side in the figure in FIG. 4).
- the direction perpendicular to the main surface 11a of the sapphire substrate 11 is defined as the “vertical direction” (or “vertical”).
- the direction is referred to as “direction"), and the direction from the base portion 10 toward the light emitting element structure portion 20 is the upward direction, and the opposite is the downward direction.
- a plane parallel to the vertical direction is referred to as a "first plane”.
- a plane parallel to the main surface 11a of the sapphire substrate 11 (or the upper surface of the base portion 10 and each of the AlGaN-based semiconductor layers 21 to 25) is referred to as a "second plane", and a direction parallel to the second plane is referred to as “second plane”. It is called "horizontal direction”.
- the base portion 10 includes a sapphire substrate 11 and an AlN layer 12 directly formed on the main surface 11a of the sapphire substrate 11.
- the main surface 11a is inclined at an angle (off angle) within a certain range (for example, from 0 degree to 6 degrees) with respect to the (0001) surface, and the main surface 11a has a multi-stage terrace. Is a slightly inclined substrate exposed.
- the AlN layer 12 is composed of an AlN crystal epitaxially grown from the main surface of the sapphire substrate 11, and the AlN crystal has an epitaxial crystal orientation relationship with respect to the main surface 11a of the sapphire substrate 11. Specifically, for example, the AlN crystal grows so that the C-axis direction ( ⁇ 0001> direction) of the sapphire substrate 11 and the C-axis direction of the AlN crystal are aligned.
- the AlN crystal constituting the AlN layer 12 may be an AlN-based semiconductor layer that may contain a trace amount of Ga or other impurities. In the present embodiment, the film thickness of the AlN layer 12 is assumed to be about 2 ⁇ m to 3 ⁇ m.
- the structure of the base portion 10 and the substrate to be used are not limited to the above-mentioned configuration.
- an AlGaN-based semiconductor layer having an AlN mole fraction equal to or higher than the AlN mole fraction of the AlGaN-based semiconductor layer 21 may be provided between the AlN layer 12 and the AlGaN-based semiconductor layer 21.
- the AlGaN-based semiconductor layers 21 to 25 of the light emitting device structure portion 20 are, in order from the base portion 10 side, an n-type clad layer 21 (n-type layer), an active layer 22, an electron block layer 23 (p-type layer), and a p-type clad. It has a structure in which a layer 24 (p-type layer) and a p-type contact layer 25 (p-type layer) are sequentially grown and laminated.
- the AlN layer 12 of the base portion 10 epitaxially grown from the main surface 11a of the sapphire substrate 11, the n-type clad layer 21 of the light emitting device structure portion 20, and each semiconductor layer in the active layer 22 are the sapphire substrate 11. It has a surface on which a multi-step terrace parallel to the (0001) plane derived from the main plane 11a of the above is formed. Since the electronic block layer 23, the p-type clad layer 24, and the p-type contact layer 25 of the p-type layer are formed on the active layer 22 by epitaxial growth, a similar multi-stage terrace can be formed. , It does not necessarily have to have a surface on which a similar multi-tiered terrace is formed.
- the active layer 22, the electron block layer 23, the p-type clad layer 24, and the p-type contact layer 25 are the first on the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21.
- the portion laminated on the two regions R2 is removed by etching or the like, and is formed on the first region R1 on the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21.
- the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21 is exposed in the second region R2 excluding the first region R1.
- the height of the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21 may differ between the first region R1 and the second region R2, in which case the n-type clad layer 21 may have a different height.
- the upper surface is individually defined in the first region R1 and the second region R2.
- the n-type clad layer 21 is composed of an n-type AlGaN-based semiconductor, and in the n-type clad layer 21, layered regions having a low AlN mole fraction are locally dispersed in the n-type clad layer 21. do.
- an n-type AlGaN region having an AlGaN composition ratio of an integer ratio of Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 that is, an n-type metastable AlGaN having an AlN mole fraction of 50%.
- the first Ga-enriched region 21a containing the above is predominantly present.
- n-type main body region 21b The region other than the layered region in the n-type clad layer 21 is referred to as an n-type main body region 21b.
- the AlN mole fraction of the n-type main body region 21b is adjusted within the range of 54% to 66%.
- the film thickness of the n-type clad layer 21 is assumed to be about 1 ⁇ m to 2 ⁇ m, which is the same as the film thickness used in a general nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device, but the film thickness is about 2 ⁇ m to 4 ⁇ m. It may be.
- the metastable AlGaN n-type AlGaN region in which the AlGaN composition ratio existing in the first Ga enriched region 21a is an integer ratio of Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 is used for convenience. Is referred to as a "metastable n-type region".
- a region in which the AlN mole fraction other than the metastable n-type region existing in the first Ga-enriched region 21a slightly fluctuates with respect to 50% (1/2) is referred to as a “metastable neighborhood n-type region”.
- the metastable n-type region does not necessarily have to exist continuously in a layered manner in the plurality of layered first Ga-enriched regions 21a, and is intermittently divided by the metastable neighborhood n-type region. May exist.
- the active layer 22 has a multiple quantum well structure in which two or more well layers 220 made of AlGaN-based semiconductors and one or more barrier layers 221 made of AlGaN-based semiconductors or AlN-based semiconductors are alternately laminated. .. It is not always necessary to provide the barrier layer 221 between the well layer 220 of the lowest layer and the n-type clad layer 21. Further, an AlGaN layer or an AlN layer which is thinner than the barrier layer 221 or the barrier layer 221 and has a higher AlN mole fraction may be provided between the well layer 220 and the electron block layer 23 of the uppermost layer.
- FIG. 5 schematically shows an example of a laminated structure (multiple quantum well structure) of the well layer 220 and the barrier layer 221 in the active layer 22.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a case where the well layer 220 has three layers.
- the structure in which the terrace T in the well layer 220 and the barrier layer 221 shown in FIG. 5 grows in a multi-stage manner is a known structure as disclosed in Non-Patent Documents 1 and 2.
- the boundary region BA between the adjacent terraces T is an inclined region inclined with respect to the (0001) plane.
- the depth of one terrace T (distance between adjacent boundary regions BA) is assumed to be several tens of nm to several hundreds of nm.
- the AlN mole fraction is locally low in the well layer 220 in the boundary region (inclined region) BA between the adjacent terraces T of the multi-stage terrace T in the well layer 220.
- the second Ga enriched region 220a is formed.
- the region other than the second Ga enriched region 220a in the well layer 220 is referred to as a well body region 220b for convenience.
- the second Ga enriched region 220a is a metastable AlGaN having an AlGaN composition ratio of an integer ratio of Al 1 Ga 2 N 3 , that is, an AlN mole fraction of 33.3% (3 minutes). 1) AlGaN exists. Further, the AlN mole fraction of the well body region 220b is adjusted within the range of 33.4% to 37%. The film thickness of the well layer 220 is adjusted to, for example, in the range of 2 unit cells to 7 unit cells, including the terrace region TA and the inclined region BA.
- the metastable AlGaN existing in the second Ga enriched region 220a having an AlGaN composition ratio of an integer ratio of Al 1 Ga 2 N 3 is referred to as a “metastable well” for convenience. Called “area”. Further, a region in which the AlN mole fraction other than the metastable well region existing in the second Ga enriched region 220a slightly fluctuates with respect to 33.3% (1/3) is referred to as a “metastable near well region”. Refer to. Here, the metastable well region exists continuously along the edge line in the second Ga enriched region 220a formed in the inclined region BA existing along the edge line of the terrace T in a plan view. It is not necessary to be present, and it may exist intermittently by being divided by the metastable neighborhood n-type region.
- the barrier layer 221 is made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor and has a surface on which a multi-stage terrace T parallel to the (0001) plane is formed, similarly to the n-type clad layer 21 and the well layer 220.
- the AlN mole fraction of the entire barrier layer 221 is assumed to be in the range of 50% to 100% as an example, but the barrier layer 221 is composed of an AlN-based semiconductor having an AlN mole fraction of 100%. In some cases, it may be composed of an AlGaN-based semiconductor whose AlN mole fraction is not 100%. Therefore, as schematically shown in FIG.
- the barrier layer 221 when the barrier layer 221 is composed of an AlGaN-based semiconductor having an AlN mole fraction not 100%, the barrier layer is similar to the n-type clad layer 21 and the well layer 220.
- a third Ga-enriched region 221a having a locally low AlN mole fraction within 221 can be formed in the boundary region (inclined region) BA between adjacent terraces T of the barrier layer 221.
- the region other than the third Ga-enriched region 221a in the terrace region in the barrier layer 221 is referred to as the barrier main body region 221b for convenience.
- the barrier body region 221b mainly exists in the terrace region TA in the barrier layer 221.
- the total AlN mole fraction including the third Ga-enriched region 221a of the barrier layer 221 is, for example, in the range of 50% to 90%, which is a part of the above-mentioned range of 50% to 100%.
- the AlN mole fraction difference between the third Ga enriched region 221a and the barrier body region 221b is 4 to 5% or more. Even at about 1%, the effect of carrier localization can be expected. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the AlN mole fraction of the barrier body region 221b is set to be in the range of 51% to 90%.
- the film thickness of the barrier layer 221 is preferably adjusted in the range of, for example, 6 nm to 8 nm including the terrace region TA and the inclined region BA.
- FIG. 6 shows a well layer having a film thickness in the range of 4 ML (monatomic layer) to 14 ML (2 unit cells to 7 unit cells) with respect to a quantum well structure model in which the well layer 220 and the barrier layer 221 are composed of AlGaN. It is a graph of the simulation result (corresponding to the peak emission wavelength) of the emission wavelength obtained by changing the emission wavelength.
- the AlN mole fraction of the second Ga enriched region 220a of the well layer 220 is set to 33.3% (1/3), which is the AlN mole fraction of the semi-stable well region, and the barrier layer 221 is formed.
- the AlN mole fraction of the third Ga enriched region 221a was set to 66.7%, 75%, and 83.3%.
- the ultraviolet light emission in the well layer 220 is remarkably generated in the boundary region (inclined region) BA. Therefore, it is important that the film thickness condition of the well layer 220 is satisfied in the inclined region BA.
- the control range (lower limit and upper limit) of the emission wavelength assumed in the emission element 1 of the present embodiment are the control range (lower limit and upper limit) of the emission wavelength assumed in the emission element 1 of the present embodiment.
- the thickness of the well layer 220 is set to the barrier layer 221.
- the emission wavelength can be controlled in the range of 277 nm to 315 nm by setting it in the range of 5 ML to 14 ML according to the AlN mole fraction of.
- the electronic block layer 23 is composed of a p-type AlGaN-based semiconductor.
- the p-type clad layer 24 is composed of a p-type AlGaN-based semiconductor.
- the p-type contact layer 25 is composed of a p-type AlGaN-based semiconductor or a p-type GaN-based semiconductor.
- the p-type contact layer 25 is typically composed of GaN.
- the film thickness of each layer such as the active layer 22, the electron block layer 23, the p-type clad layer 24, and the p-type contact layer 25 is appropriately determined according to the emission wavelength characteristics and electrical characteristics of the light emitting element 1. .. Further, the p-type clad layer 24 may be omitted in order to reduce the parasitic resistance of the p-type layer.
- the p electrode 26 is made of a multilayer metal film such as Ni / Au, and is formed on the upper surface of the p-type contact layer 25.
- the n electrode 27 is made of a multilayer metal film such as Ti / Al / Ti / Au, and is formed in a part of the exposed surface in the second region R2 of the n-type clad layer 21.
- the p-electrode 26 and the n-electrode 27 are not limited to the above-mentioned multilayer metal film, and the electrode structures such as the metal constituting each electrode, the number of layers, and the order of layers may be appropriately changed.
- FIG. 7 shows an example of the shape of the p electrode 26 and the n electrode 27 as viewed from above of the light emitting element 1.
- the line BL existing between the p electrode 26 and the n electrode 27 shows the boundary line between the first region R1 and the second region R2, and is the active layer 22, the electron block layer 23, and the p-type clad layer. 24 and the outer peripheral side wall surface of the p-type contact layer 25.
- the plan view shape of the first region R1 and the p electrode 26 adopts a comb shape as an example, but the plane of the first region R1 and the p electrode 26.
- the visual shape, arrangement, and the like are not limited to the examples shown in FIG.
- first Ga-enriched region 21a of the n-type clad layer 21 a plurality of layers are separated in the vertical direction as one layer is schematically shown by a double line in FIG. Further, in one first plane parallel to the vertical direction (for example, the cross section shown in FIG. 4), at least a part of the first Ga enriched region 21a is stretched in the lateral direction (first plane and second plane). It is inclined with respect to the extending direction of the line of intersection with. On the first plane shown in FIG. 4, each layer of the first Ga-enriched region 21a is schematically shown by parallel lines (double lines), but the inclination angle formed by the stretching direction and the lateral direction is formed.
- first Ga-enriched regions 21a Is not necessarily the same between the first Ga-enriched regions 21a, and may change depending on the position even within the same first Ga-enriched region 21a, so that the first Ga-enriched region 21a on the first plane does not necessarily extend linearly. Not always.
- the inclination angle also changes depending on the orientation of the first plane. Therefore, a part of the first Ga-enriched region 21a may intersect with another first Ga-enriched region 21a or branch from another first Ga-enriched region 21a on the first plane.
- the first Ga enriched region 21a is shown by one line (double line) on the first plane in FIG. 4, but also in the direction perpendicular to the first plane. It extends parallel to or inclined in two planes and has a two-dimensional spread. Therefore, the plurality of first Ga-enriched regions 21a exist in a striped pattern on the plurality of second planes in the n-type clad layer 21.
- the first Ga enriched region 21a is a layered region having a locally low AlN mole fraction in the n-type clad layer 21. That is, the AlN mole fraction of the first Ga enriched region 21a is relatively low with respect to the AlN mole fraction of the n-type main body region 21b. Further, when the AlN mole fractions of both regions are asymptotically continuous in the vicinity of the boundary between the first Ga enriched region 21a and the n-type main body region 21b, the boundary between the two regions cannot be clearly defined.
- the average AlN mole fraction of the entire n-type clad layer 21, for example, the growth conditions of the n-type clad layer 21 described later (raw material gas or carrier used in the organic metal compound vapor phase growth method).
- the portion where the AlN mole fraction is lower than the reference value can be relatively defined as the first Ga enriched region 21a.
- a portion having a large change in brightness can be defined as a boundary between both layers.
- the definition of the boundary between the two layers itself is not important, and it is sufficient if the existence of the first Ga enriched region 21a itself can be grasped.
- the first Ga-enriched region 21a is formed with the mass transfer of Ga from the n-type main body region 21b, the first Ga-enriched region 21a is enriched according to the amount of Ga supplied from the n-type main body region 21b.
- the average AlN mole fraction in the region 21a varies, and the AlN mole fraction is not always uniform even within the first Ga enriched region 21a.
- the metastable n-type region is stably formed in the first Ga enriched region 21a, even if there is a slight fluctuation in the supply amount of Ga, the fluctuation is metastable n. It is absorbed by the mold region and the fluctuation of the AlN mole fraction in the first Ga enriched region 21a is suppressed.
- the minimum value of the AlN mole fraction in each first Ga enriched region 21a is 50% or a value close to the AlN mole fraction of the semi-stable n-type region.
- the first Ga enriched region 21a there is a metastable neighborhood n-type region as well as a metastable n-type region, and the metastable neighborhood n-type region is also Ga from the n-type main body region 21b. Since it is formed with mass transfer, the AlN mole fraction of the metastable n-type region is usually higher than the AlN mole fraction of the metastable n-type region, and the average AlN in the first Ga-enriched region 21a. The mole fraction is slightly higher than the AlN mole fraction in the metastable n-type region.
- the n-type main body region 21b supplies Ga to the first Ga-enriched region 21a, so that the portion of the n-type main body region 21b after the mass transfer of Ga has a relatively high AlN mole fraction.
- the AlN mole fraction fluctuates to some extent also in the n-type main body region 21b. ..
- the carriers in the n-type clad layer 21 are localized in the first Ga enriched region 21a having a smaller bandgap energy than the n-type main body region 21b, and the current is prioritized in the n-type clad layer 21. Since the current stably flows through the first Ga-enriched region 21a, even if the AlN mole fraction in the n-type main body region 21b fluctuates slightly, the characteristic fluctuation of the light emitting element 1 is suppressed by the first Ga-enriched region 21a. To.
- the above description of the first Ga-enriched region 21a is valid as it is for the second Ga-enriched region 220a. That is, in the present embodiment, since the semi-stable well region is stably formed in the second Ga enriched region 220a, even if there is a slight fluctuation in the supply amount of Ga, the fluctuation is the semi-stable well region.
- the average AlN mole fraction of the second Ga enriched region 220a is 33.3% or its vicinity, which is the AlN mole fraction of the semi-stable well region.
- the second Ga enriched region 220a there is a semi-stable near well region as well as a semi-stable well region, and the semi-stable near well region is also accompanied by the mass transfer of Ga from the well body region 220b. Due to the formation, the AlN mole fraction of the near-stable well region is usually higher than the AlN mole fraction of the semi-stable well region, and the average AlN mole fraction in the second Ga enriched region 220a is quasi. It is slightly higher than the AlN mole fraction in the stable well region.
- the well body region 220b supplies Ga to the second Ga enriched region 220a, so that the AlN mole fraction in the well body region 220b after the mass transfer is relatively high. Further, since the mass transfer of Ga to the extent that the formation of the second Ga enriched region 220a may occur in the well body region 220b, the AlN mole fraction fluctuates to some extent also in the well body region 220b. However, as described above, the carriers in the well layer 220 are localized in the second Ga-enriched region 220a having a smaller bandgap energy than the well body region 220b, and the current is preferentially second Ga-enriched in the well layer 220. Since the current flows stably in the well body region 220a, even if the AlN mole fraction in the well body region 220b fluctuates slightly, the characteristic fluctuation of the light emitting element 1 is suppressed by the second Ga enrichment region 220a.
- the organometallic compound vapor phase growth (MOVPE) method the AlN layer 12 contained in the base portion 10 and the nitride semiconductor layers 21 to 25 contained in the light emitting device structure portion 20 are sequentially epitaxially grown on the sapphire substrate 11. And stack.
- the n-type clad layer 21 is doped with, for example, Si as a donor impurity
- the electron block layer 23, the p-type clad layer 24, and the p-type contact layer 25 are doped with, for example, Mg as an acceptor impurity.
- a multi-stage terrace parallel to the (0001) plane is exposed.
- the main surface 11a is inclined at an angle (off angle) within a certain range (for example, from 0 degree to 6 degrees) with respect to the (0001) surface, and is multi-staged on the main surface 11a.
- the growth rate at which the multi-stage terrace is easily exposed (specifically, for example, the growth temperature, the raw material gas and the carrier).
- the growth rate is achieved by appropriately setting various conditions such as the amount of gas supplied and the flow velocity). Since these conditions may differ depending on the type and structure of the film forming apparatus, it is sufficient to actually prepare some samples in the film forming apparatus and specify these conditions.
- the first Ga enriched region 21a grows by mass transfer of Ga to the stepped portion (boundary region) between the multistage terraces formed on the upper surface of the AlN layer 12.
- the donor impurity concentration is selected.
- the growth temperature is preferably 1050 ° C. or higher at which mass transfer of Ga is likely to occur, and 1150 ° C. or lower at which good n-type AlGaN can be prepared. Further, when the growth temperature exceeds 1170 ° C., the mass transfer of Ga becomes excessive, and even in the first semi-stable AlGaN, the AlN mole fraction tends to fluctuate randomly, so that the AlN mole fraction is 50%. Semi-stable AlGaN is not preferable because it is difficult to form stably.
- As the growth pressure 75 Torr or less is preferable as a good growth condition of AlGaN, and 10 Torr or more is realistic and preferable as a control limit of the film forming apparatus.
- the donor impurity concentration is preferably about 1 ⁇ 10 18 to 5 ⁇ 10 18 cm -3.
- the growth temperature, growth pressure, and the like are examples, and optimum conditions may be appropriately specified according to the film forming apparatus to be used.
- the supply amount and flow velocity of the raw material gas (trimethylaluminum (TMA) gas, trimethylgallium (TMG) gas, ammonia gas) and carrier gas used in the organic metal compound vapor phase growth method are average for the entire n-type clad layer 21.
- the AlN mole fraction Xa is set as the target value.
- Xc (> 50%) be the average AlN mole fraction of the first Ga-enriched region 21a in which a slightly higher near-stable n-type region exists, and Ga from the n-type main body region 21b to the first Ga-enriched region 21a.
- a semi-stable n-type region having an AlN mole fraction of 50% is stably present in the first Ga-enriched region 21a, and the target value Xa of the AlN mole fraction of the n-type clad layer 21 is 54% or more. Since it is 66%, the difference between the AlN mole fraction 50% in the semi-stable n-type region and the average AlN mole fraction Xb in the n-type main body region 21b (Xc-50%) is stably 4% or more. Is secured, and the carriers in the n-type layer are localized in the first Ga-enriched region 21a having a smaller bandgap energy than the n-type main body region 21b.
- metastable AlGaN having an AlGaN composition ratio of Al 2 Ga 1 N 3 is not predominantly formed in the n-type main body region 21b.
- the upper limit of the target value Xa is at least 67%, metastable AlGaN of Al 2 Ga 1 N 3 in the n-type body region 21b is stably formed, metastable AlGaN of the Al 2 Ga 1 N 3 Therefore, it becomes difficult to sufficiently supply Ga for stably forming the metastable AlGaN (metastable n-type region) of Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 in the first Ga enriched region. Therefore, by setting the upper limit of the target value Xa to 66%, it becomes possible to stably form a metastable n-type region having an AlN mole fraction of 50% in the first Ga enriched region 21a.
- the donor impurity concentration does not necessarily have to be controlled uniformly in the vertical direction with respect to the film thickness of the n-type clad layer 21.
- the impurity concentration of the predetermined thin film thickness portion in the n-type clad layer 21 is lower than the above set concentration, for example, less than 1 ⁇ 10 18 cm -3 , more preferably 1 ⁇ 10 17 cm -3 or less. It may be a controlled low impurity concentration layer.
- the film thickness of the low impurity concentration layer is preferably larger than 0 nm and about 200 nm or less, more preferably about 10 nm or more and 100 nm or less, and further preferably about 20 nm or more and about 50 nm or less.
- the donor impurity concentration of the low impurity concentration layer may be lower than the set concentration, and the undoped layer (0 cm -3 ) may be partially contained. Further, it is preferable that a part or all of the low impurity concentration layer is present in the upper layer region having a depth of 100 nm or less downward from the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21.
- the organometallic compound vapor phase growth continues on the entire upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21.
- the active layer 22 (well layer 220, barrier layer 221), the electron block layer 23, the p-type clad layer 24, the p-type contact layer 25, and the like are formed by a well-known epitaxial growth method such as the method.
- the well layer 220 is grown with a target value of% to 37%), and the barrier layer 221 is further set with an AlN mole fraction (51% to 90% or 100%) set for the barrier body region 221b as a target value. To grow.
- the second region R2 of the nitride semiconductor layers 21 to 25 laminated in the above manner is selectively etched by a well-known etching method such as reactive ion etching until the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21 is exposed.
- the second region R2 portion on the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21 is exposed.
- a p-electrode 26 is formed on the p-type contact layer 25 in the unetched first region R1 by a well-known film forming method such as an electron beam vapor deposition method, and n in the etched first region R2.
- the n electrode 27 is formed on the mold clad layer 21.
- heat treatment may be performed by a well-known heat treatment method such as RTA (instantaneous heat annealing).
- the light emitting element 1 is flip-chip mounted on a base such as a submount and then sealed with a predetermined resin (for example, a lens-shaped resin) such as a silicone resin or an amorphous fluororesin. Can be used in state.
- a predetermined resin for example, a lens-shaped resin
- a silicone resin or an amorphous fluororesin such as silicone resin or an amorphous fluororesin.
- a sample for observing the cross section of the n-type clad layer 21 is prepared, and a sample piece having a cross section perpendicular (or substantially vertical) to the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21 is processed by a focused ion beam (FIB) from the sample. Then, the result of observing the sample piece with a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) will be described with reference to the drawings.
- FIB focused ion beam
- the sample is prepared according to the procedure for producing the n-type clad layer 21 and the like described above, on the base portion 10 composed of the sapphire substrate 11 and the AlN layer 12, the n-type clad layer 21, the active layer 22, and the n-type clad layer. It was prepared by sequentially depositing an AlGaN layer having a higher AlN molar fraction than 21, an AlGaN layer for protecting the sample surface, and a protective resin film. In the preparation of the sample, a sapphire substrate 11 whose main surface has an off angle with respect to the (0001) surface was used, and a base portion 10 in which a multi-step terrace was exposed on the surface of the AlN layer 12 was used.
- the film thickness of the n-type clad layer 21 was set to 2 ⁇ m, and the target value of the AlN mole fraction of the n-type clad layer 21 was set to 58%. Further, the injection amount of the donor impurity (Si) was controlled so that the donor impurity concentration was about 3 ⁇ 10 18 cm -3.
- FIG. 8 shows a high-angle scattering annular dark field (HAADF) -STEM image of the cross section of the sample piece.
- FIG. 8 is a HAADF-STEM image for observing the entire upper layer of the AlN layer 12 of the sample piece, the n-type clad layer 21, and the n-type clad layer 21 including the active layer 22.
- HAADF high-angle scattering annular dark field
- the HAADF-STEM image has a contrast proportional to the atomic weight, and heavy elements are displayed brightly. Therefore, in the first Ga-enriched region 21a and the n-type main body region 21b in the n-type clad layer 21, the first Ga-enriched region 21a having a low AlN mole fraction is displayed brighter than the n-type main body region 21b.
- the HAADF-STEM image is more suitable for observing the difference in AlN mole fraction than the normal STEM image (bright field image).
- a plurality of first Ga-enriched regions 21a which are locally low AlN mole fractions, are dispersed in the vertical direction, and the first Ga-enriched regions 21a are present.
- Each stretches in a direction inclined with respect to the line of intersection between the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21 and the first plane on the screen of the HAADF-STEM image (cross section of the sample piece, corresponding to the first plane). You can see that there is.
- Each of the first Ga-enriched regions 21a extends diagonally upward in a linear shape, but does not necessarily extend linearly, and the inclination angle with respect to the line of intersection is within the same first Ga-enriched region 21a.
- composition analysis of the sample piece in the n-type clad layer 21 is performed by two types of analysis methods (energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (section TEM-EDX) line analysis and CL (cathodoluminescence) method). gone.
- the electron beam probe (diameter: about 2 nm) is vertically (vertically) and horizontally. Scanned in the direction (direction parallel to the second plane) and distributed in a matrix of 512 ⁇ 512 in the vertical and horizontal directions at intervals of about 4 nm, detection data (corresponding to each composition of Al and Ga) at each probe location. X-ray intensity) was obtained.
- the entire measurement region has a substantially square shape (about 420 nm).
- Six measurement regions A to F ( ⁇ about 420 nm) were set.
- FIG. 9 shows the HAADF-STEM image of FIG. 8 overlaid with a rectangular frame showing each measurement area A to F.
- Each of the six measurement regions is set so as to cross at least one first Ga enriched region 21a confirmed on the HAADF-STEM image.
- the inclination of each measurement region is set for each measurement region so that the stretching direction of at least one first Ga enriched region 21a in the measurement region is orthogonal to the scanning direction of the line analysis.
- the inclinations of the measurement areas A to F are approximately equal at about 20 °, but are not necessarily the same.
- the scanning direction of the line analysis is set to the vertical direction and the direction orthogonal to the scanning direction is set to be horizontal for convenience of explanation.
- the central vertical line shown in each measurement region indicates the scanning direction, and the central horizontal line indicates the location where at least one first Ga enriched region 21a is assumed to exist, which will be described later. It is the origin (0 nm) of the scanning position of the line analysis in the composition analysis result.
- An arrow is attached to the vertical line indicating the scanning direction, and indicates the direction of the AlN layer 12.
- the scanning positions are set on the vertical line in the center in the vertical direction with the origin in between, at intervals of about 5 nm, in the range of 58 to 81 points in total for each of the measurement regions A to F.
- the detection data obtained from a plurality of probe locations aligned in the horizontal direction are accumulated and used as the detection data at each scanning position.
- aligned in the horizontal direction means that the irradiation range of the electron beam probe overlaps with the horizontal line that intersects the vertical line and extends in the horizontal direction at each scanning position.
- the accumulated detection data is metastitious.
- the AlN mole fraction in the stable n-type region will be shown accurately.
- the accumulated detection data is the AlN of the n-type body region 21b. The mole fraction will be shown accurately.
- the stretching direction of the metastable n-type region of the first Ga enriched region 21a is not exactly orthogonal to the scanning direction of the line analysis, or the metastable of the first Ga enriched region 21a.
- the stretching direction of the n-type region is bent and not linear, a part of the plurality of probe points aligned in the lateral direction or a part of the probe range (diameter about 2 nm) of each probe point is metastable.
- the accumulated detection data indicates the average AlN mole fraction of multiple probe locations. It shows a value higher than the AlN mole fraction in the metastable n-type region.
- a part of the plurality of probe points or the probe of each probe point is a region where the AlN mole fraction generated by the mass transfer of Ga in the n-type main body region 21b is locally low or high, or an AlN mole fraction other than the n-type main body region 21b. If the rate is locally low (a layered region other than the first Ga-enriched region 21a, a semi-stable n-type region in the first Ga-enriched region 21a, or a semi-stable neighborhood n-type region), it is cumulative.
- the detected detection data will show the average AlN mole fraction of the plurality of probe points, and the average AlN mole fraction of the n-type main body region 21b ( ⁇ the AlN mole fraction of the n-type clad layer 21). Indicates a value lower or higher than the target value).
- FIGS. 10A to 10F show the results of composition analysis in the n-type clad layer 21 in the six measurement regions A to F shown in FIG. 9 by line analysis of EDX measurement.
- the horizontal axis indicates the scanning position along the vertical line in the center of each measurement area, and the vertical axis represents the AlN mole fraction.
- the measurement result of the GaN mole fraction is shown.
- the 0 nm scan position on the horizontal axis indicates the position of the central horizontal line shown in each measurement region (where at least one first Ga enriched region 21a is assumed to be present).
- the scanning position is shown with a positive value on the lower side (AlN layer 12 side) below the origin (0 nm) and a negative value on the upper side (active layer 22 side).
- the X-rays emitted from the probe points are weak, so even if the detection data of the probe points (X-ray intensity of each composition) is accumulated in the lateral direction at each scanning position, it is general.
- the measurement error is large.
- the measurement error of the detection data at each scanning position is the reference AlN layer 12 Even in the vicinity, it is about ⁇ 2 to 3%, and the measurement accuracy further decreases as the distance from the AlN layer 12 increases.
- the same sample as the sample piece used for the EDX measurement is used.
- the composition of Al and Ga in the n-type clad layer 21 was analyzed by the Rutherford backscattering (RBS) analysis method, and the results obtained by the EDX measurement were calibrated using the RBS analysis results.
- the AlN mole fraction and the GaN mole fraction of the measurement regions A to F shown in FIGS. 10A to 10F show the result of the calibration.
- the existence of the first Ga-enriched region 21a can be confirmed in the region A1 in which the scanning position is about ⁇ 140 nm to about ⁇ 131 nm and the region A2 in which the scanning position is about -5 nm to about 5 nm.
- the AlN mole fraction at the three scanning positions in region A1 is 52.4% to 52.8%.
- the AlN mole fraction at the three scanning positions in the region A2 is 50.9% to 51.5% (1 point within 50% to 51%).
- the presence of the first Ga-enriched region 21a can be confirmed in the region B1 at the scanning position of about -169 nm to about -145 nm and the region B2 at the scanning position of about -5 nm to about 5 nm.
- the AlN mole fraction at 6 scanning positions in region B1 is 51.8% to 52.4% (4 points within 50% to 52%).
- the AlN mole fraction at the three scanning positions in the region B2 is 51.5% to 53.0% (1 point within 50% to 52%).
- the existence of the first Ga-enriched region 21a can be confirmed in the region C1 at the scanning position of about ⁇ 53 nm to about ⁇ 44 nm and the region C2 at the scanning position of about 0 nm to about 5 nm.
- the AlN mole fraction at the three scanning positions in the region C1 is 51.2% to 52.6% (two points within 50% to 52%).
- the AlN mole fractions at the two scanning positions in region C2 are 51.4% and 52.6%.
- the presence of the first Ga-enriched region 21a can be confirmed in the region D1 at the scanning position of about -169 nm to about -97 nm and the region D2 at the scanning position of about -5 nm to about 5 nm.
- the AlN mole fraction at 16 scanning positions in region D1 is 50.7% to 52.5% (6 points within 50% to 51%, 13 points within 50% to 52%).
- the AlN mole fraction at the three scanning positions in region D2 is 50.8% to 52.6% (2 points within 50% to 52%).
- the presence of the first Ga-enriched region 21a can be confirmed in the region E1 at the scanning position of about -116 nm to about -73 nm and the region E2 at the scanning position of about -5 nm to about 5 nm. ..
- the AlN mole fraction at 10 scanning positions in region E1 is 51.3% to 52.8% (4 points within 50% to 52%).
- the AlN mole fraction at the three scanning positions in the region E2 is 50.5% to 51.9% (1 point within 50% to 51%).
- the presence of the first Ga-enriched region 21a can be confirmed in the region F4 at the scanning position of about 97 nm to about 106 nm.
- the AlN mole fraction at the five scanning positions in the region F1 is 49.1% to 52.3% (2 points within 49% to 50%, 1 point within 50% to 52%).
- the AlN mole fraction at the four scanning positions in the region F2 is 51.4% to 52.7% (two points within 50% to 52%).
- the AlN mole fraction at the four scanning positions in the region F3 is 51.6% to 52.2% (3 points within 50% to 52%).
- the AlN mole fraction at the three scanning positions in the region F4 is 51.0% to 51.3% (1 point within 50% to 51%).
- the measurement error of about ⁇ 2 to 3% at each scanning position described above and the average AlN mole fraction of a plurality of probe locations aligned laterally with respect to the first Ga enriched region 21a are semi-stable n-type.
- the existence of a semi-stable n-type region having an AlN mole fraction of 50% can be confirmed in the 1Ga enriched region 21a.
- the first Ga enriched region 21a is a measurement region A to C in the upper portion near the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21, a measurement region D in the central portion, and measurement regions E and F in the lower portion near the AlN layer 12, respectively. It can be seen that it exists in the n-type clad layer 21 and is uniformly dispersed in the n-type clad layer 21.
- FIG. 10A Considering the possibility that the average AlN mole fraction of a plurality of laterally aligned probe locations with respect to the body region 21b may be higher or lower than the average AlN mole fraction of the n-type body region 21b, FIG. 10A. It can be seen that FIG. 10F accurately represents the AlN mole fraction of the n-type main body region 21b.
- the sample piece used for the measurement was prepared in the same manner as the sample piece used for observing the HAADF-STEM image shown in FIG.
- FIG. 11 is a scanning electron microscope (SEM) image showing a cross section of the sample piece in the n-type clad layer 21.
- the measurement regions (a to f) surrounded by the dotted lines in the cross section indicate the incident regions of the electron beams irradiated for measurement, respectively.
- the measurement regions a and b are located at a distance of about 1800 nm from the upper surface of the AlN layer 12
- the measurement regions c and d are located at a distance of about 1000 nm from the upper surface of the AlN layer 12
- the measurement regions e and f are AlN. It is located at a distance of about 400 nm from the upper surface of the layer 12.
- an electron beam having a beam diameter of 50 nm (diameter) was moved laterally and irradiated once at intervals of 50 nm, for a total of 10 times, and the CL spectrum at each irradiation was measured.
- FIG. 12 shows the first CL spectrum obtained by averaging two CL spectra having a wavelength distribution closer to the short wavelength among the ten CL spectra in each measurement region (a to f), and FIG. 12 showing the first CL spectrum having a wavelength distribution closer to the long wavelength.
- the second CL spectrum obtained by averaging the two CL spectra is displayed for each measurement region (a to f).
- the first Ga enriched region 21a and the n-type main body region 21b are included in the 10 irradiation regions. Both exist. Since the volume ratio of the first Ga-enriched region 21a to the entire n-type clad layer 21 is small, the first CL spectrum mainly shows the CL spectrum of the n-type main body region 21b. On the other hand, the second CL spectrum includes the CL spectrum of the first Ga-enriched region 21a, but the width of the first Ga-enriched region 21a in the cross section perpendicular to the stretching direction is about 20 nm on average.
- the n-type main body region 21b may be partially included in the irradiation range having a beam diameter of 50 nm. Therefore, the second CL spectrum is a composite spectrum of the CL spectrum of the first Ga enriched region 21a and the CL spectrum of the n-type main body region 21b.
- the center of each electron beam of the two CL spectra whose wavelength distribution is closer to the long wavelength is located at the center in the width direction of the first Ga enriched region 21a, the electron in the central portion within the irradiation range is located.
- the beam is likely to gather in the first Ga-enriched region 21a with a low energy level and excite the first Ga-enriched region 21a exclusively, and the second CL spectrum mainly contains the CL spectrum of the first Ga-enriched region 21a. It is considered to indicate.
- the reason why the first CL spectrum is the average of two CL spectra whose wavelength distribution is closer to the short wavelength and the second CL spectrum is the average of the two CL spectra whose wavelength distribution is closer to the long wavelength is Since the irradiation position of the electron beam in each measurement area is randomly set, the irradiation range of each one CL spectrum closest to the shortest wavelength and the longest wavelength is different for each measurement area, so that the measurement result is in the measurement area. In order to suppress the variation in each measurement region in consideration of the fact that there is a large variation in each measurement and that it may be difficult to select one CL spectrum for each of the shortest wavelength and the longest wavelength. It was decided to mechanically select and average two CL spectra having a wavelength distribution closer to the short wavelength and one closer to the long wavelength.
- the first CL spectrum of each measurement region (a to f) will be examined.
- the peak of the emission wavelength exists in the vicinity of about 262 nm.
- gentle peaks of the emission wavelength exist at two locations, around about 263 nm and around about 271 nm.
- the peak of the emission wavelength exists in the vicinity of about 261 nm.
- the peak of the emission wavelength exists in the vicinity of about 262 nm to 263 nm.
- the peak of the emission wavelength exists in the vicinity of about 256 nm to 259 nm.
- the peak of the emission wavelength exists in the vicinity of about 257 nm to 259 nm.
- the peak wavelength of about 256 nm to about 263 nm in each measurement region (a to f) corresponds to about 57% to about 63% when converted to AlN mole fraction, and is about ⁇ 3% when converted to AlN mole fraction.
- the CL wavelength of the first CL spectrum and the average AlN mole fraction Xb ( ⁇ target value 58%) of the n-type main body region 21b are generally in agreement.
- the long wavelength component having a peak wavelength of about 259 nm to about 263 nm is larger than the short wavelength component having a peak wavelength less than the same peak wavelength, and the first CL spectrum in each measurement region. It can be seen that the mass transfer of Ga occurs within the two irradiation ranges corresponding to the CL spectrum of. Further, the peak wavelength of about 271 nm in the first CL spectrum of the measurement region b corresponds to about 53% ⁇ 3% when converted to the AlN mole fraction, and the AlN mole fraction existing in the first Ga enriched region 21a.
- the mass of Ga is part of the two irradiation ranges corresponding to the first CL spectrum of the measurement region b, which is roughly in agreement with the CL wavelength from the near-stable n-type region where the rate is slightly higher than 50%. It can be seen that the first Ga enriched region 21a formed by the migration is included.
- the second CL spectrum of each measurement region (a to f) will be examined.
- the peak of the emission wavelength exists in the vicinity of about 272 nm.
- gentle peaks of the emission wavelength exist at two locations, around about 261 nm and around about 270 nm.
- the peaks of the emission wavelength are present at two locations, around about 269 nm and around about 271 nm.
- the peak of the emission wavelength exists in the vicinity of about 268 nm.
- the peak wavelengths of the measurement regions a to d and f from about 270 nm to about 272 nm correspond to about 52% to about 53% when converted to AlN mole fraction, and about ⁇ 3% when converted to AlN mole fraction.
- the AlN mole fraction existing in the first Ga enriched region 21a is almost the same as the CL wavelength (about 275 nm) corresponding to the semi-stable n-type region of 50%.
- the second CL spectra of the measurement regions a to d and f include a CL wavelength of about 275 nm corresponding to the metastable n-type region with an emission intensity of about 73 to 79% of the peak intensity.
- the peak wavelength of about 270 nm to about 272 nm is about 3 to 5 nm shorter than the CL wavelength (about 275 nm) corresponding to the metastable n-type region.
- the second CL spectra of the measurement regions a to d and f are metastable with a slightly higher AlN mole fraction than the metastable n-type region and the metastable n-type region in the first Ga-enriched region 21a. It is shown that each CL spectrum in the neighboring n-type region and the CL spectrum in the n-type main body region 21b appear as a composite spectrum.
- a gentle peak or shoulder (undulation) of the emission wavelength exists in the vicinity of about 260 nm to about 262 nm, and is synthesized as compared with the measurement regions a and b.
- the ratio of the CL spectrum of the n-type main body region 21b to the spectrum is large.
- the peak wavelength is about 268 nm, which corresponds to about 54% when converted to the AlN mole fraction.
- the peak wavelength of about 268 nm is about 7 nm shorter than the CL wavelength (about 275 nm) corresponding to the metastable n-type region.
- the second CL spectrum of the measurement region e contains a CL wavelength of about 275 nm corresponding to the metastable n-type region with an emission intensity of about 46% of the peak intensity.
- the second CL spectrum of the measurement region e is the same as the measurement regions a to d and f, and the CL spectra of the metastable n-type region and the metastable neighborhood n-type region in the first Ga-enriched region 21a. , It is shown that it appears as a composite spectrum of the CL spectrum of the n-type main body region 21b. However, in the second CL spectrum of the measurement region e, the ratio of the CL spectrum in the metastable n-type region to the synthetic spectrum is smaller than that in the measurement regions a to d and f.
- the AlN mole fraction of the n-type main body region 21b is almost one with the target value of 58% of the AlN mole fraction of the n-type clad layer 21. You can see that we are doing it.
- the first Ga-enriched region 21a contains a metastable n-type region having an AlN mole fraction of 50%, and at the same time, a metastable n-type region. It can be seen that there is a metastable near n-type region having a higher AlN mole fraction than the region.
- FIGS. 10A to 10F the analysis results shown in the first and second CL spectra in each of the measurement regions a to f shown in FIG. 12 are shown in FIGS. 10A to 10F, although there are differences in spatial resolution and the like due to differences in the analysis method. It is in good agreement with the analysis result by EDX measurement.
- the abundance ratio of the metastable n-type region in the first Ga-enriched region 21a depends on the position in the n-type clad layer 21. However, since there are many uncertainties, detailed examination is omitted.
- the effect of the present invention is not necessarily reduced.
- the carriers (electrons) in the n-type clad layer 21 are localized in the first Ga-enriched region 21a, so that the current preferentially forms the first Ga-enriched region in the n-type clad layer 21. It can flow stably and suppress fluctuations in the characteristics of the light emitting element.
- the active layer 22 in the light emitting region is located above the n-type clad layer 21, the effect of the localization becomes remarkable in the vicinity of the upper surface of the n-type clad layer 21 in contact with the active layer 22. Therefore, even if the localization is insufficient in the region close to the AlN layer 12 in the n-type clad layer 21, it is possible to suppress the characteristic fluctuation of the light emitting device in the same manner. Further, in the element structure shown in FIG. 4, since the forward current flows more on the upper layer side than the lower layer side in the n-type clad layer 21, the above localization is performed in the region close to the AlN layer 12 in the n-type clad layer 21. It is considered that there is almost no effect of insufficient.
- FIG. 13 shows each CL of the inclined region BA and the terrace region TA of the well layer 220 with respect to the sample having a multiple quantum well structure in which the well layer 220 shown in FIG. 5 is composed of three layers and the barrier layer 221 is composed of two layers. The result of measuring the spectrum is shown.
- the sample piece used for the CL measurement was prepared in the same manner as the sample piece when the composition analysis in the n-type clad layer 21 was performed by the EDX method and the CL method.
- the film thickness of the well layer 220 of the sample piece in the terrace region TA (well body region 220b) is 7 to 8 ML, and the film thickness in the inclined region BA (second Ga enriched region 220a) is slightly thicker than that of the terrace region TA. It is 9 to 10 ML.
- the target value of the AlN mole fraction of the barrier layer 221 of the sample piece is 80%.
- semi-stable AlGaN having an AlGaN composition ratio of an integer ratio of Al 3 Ga 1 N 4 is predominantly formed in the inclined region BA (third Ga enriched region 221a) of the barrier layer 221.
- the mole fraction is expected to be 75%.
- the peak emission wavelength of the CL spectrum in the inclined region BA (second Ga enriched region 220a) of the well layer 220 is about 296 nm, which is almost the same as the emission wavelength of the simulation result shown in FIG. ing. From this, it can be seen that the metastable well region (metastable AlGaN having an AlGaN composition ratio of Al 1 Ga 2 N 3 ) predominantly exists in the second Ga-enriched region 220a of the well layer 220 of the sample piece. ..
- the peak emission wavelength of the CL spectrum in the terrace region TA (barrier main body region 221b) of the well layer 220 is about 286 nm, which is about 10 nm shorter than the gradient region BA. This is because the terrace region TA has a thinner film thickness and a higher AlN mole fraction than the inclined region BA.
- the AlN mole fraction of the well layer 220 is about 33.3% to 50% higher than the AlN mole fraction (33.3%) of the inclined region BA (second Ga enriched region 220a) of the well layer 220. Therefore, in the electron beam irradiated toward the inclined region BA of the well layer 220, even if the beam diameter is as large as 50 nm, the high-energy electrons in the center of the beam are concentrated in the inclined region BA of the well layer 220 having a low energy state. Therefore, the emission wavelength of the inclined region BA of the well layer 220 can be accurately measured.
- the barrier layer 221 is composed of an AlGaN-based semiconductor having an AlN mole fraction not 100%, as an example, the entire AlN mole fraction including the third Ga enriched region 221a of the barrier layer 221.
- the rate within the range of 50% to 90% and the AlN mole fraction of the barrier body region 221b within the range of 51% to 90%. It was shown that the difference in AlN mole fraction between the third Ga enriched region 221a and the barrier body region 221b is 1% or more.
- the third Ga-enriched region 221a of the barrier layer 221 is also the same as the first Ga-enriched region 21a of the n-type clad layer 21 and the second Ga-enriched region 220a of the well layer 220 in the first embodiment. It is preferably composed of the first or second metastable AlGaN.
- the AlN mole fraction of the entire barrier layer 221 is in the range of 50% to 90%, the first semi-stable AlGaN applicable to the third Ga enriched region 221a has an AlGaN composition ratio of an integer ratio. It becomes Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 , Al 2 Ga 1 N 3 , or Al 5 Ga 1 N 6.
- Al 7 Ga 5 N 12 and Al 3 Ga 1 N 4 of the second metastable AlGaN are also considered to be applicable to the third Ga enriched region 221a, but if they are used intentionally, Al with higher stability is considered. 3 Ga 1 N 4 is preferable.
- the composition ratio of Al is too high, so that a large amount of Al is randomly sited before the easily mobile Ga enters the site where the symmetric array is formed.
- the AlN mole fraction of the third Ga enriched region 221a of the barrier layer 221 is 66.7%, 75%, and 83.3%.
- Three cases were assumed, but these correspond to the AlN mole fractions of semi-stable AlGaN having AlGaN composition ratios of Al 2 Ga 1 N 3 , Al 3 Ga 1 N 4 , and Al 5 Ga 1 N 6. do.
- the barrier body region 221b When the third Ga enriched region 221a is composed of the semi-stable AlGaN Al 1 Ga 1 N 2 , Al 2 Ga 1 N 3 , Al 3 Ga 1 N 4 , or Al 5 Ga 1 N 6 , the barrier body region 221b.
- the AlN mole fraction corresponds to each of the four AlN mole fractions of the 3rd Ga enriched region 221a, 51% to 66%, 68% to 74%, 76% to 82%, or 85% to 85%. It is preferably within each range of 90%.
- the barrier main body is used to prevent the low stability Al 11 Ga 1 N 12 from being randomly mixed.
- the AlN mole fraction of the region 221b is preferably set so as not to exceed 90%.
- the method for producing the third Ga-enriched region 221a and the barrier body region 221b of the barrier layer 221 is the same as that for the n-type clad layer 21, and the AlN mole fraction set for the barrier body region 221b.
- the barrier layer 221 is grown under the growth condition that the multi-tiered terrace is easily exposed.
- AlN of the barrier layer 221 is similar to the target value Xa of the AlN mole fraction of the n-type clad layer 21.
- the target value Xd of the mole fraction is set in the range of 51% to 66%.
- the target value Xd of the AlN mole fraction of the barrier layer 221 is 68% to 74.
- the target value Xd of the AlN mole fraction of the barrier layer 221 is set to 76.
- the target value of the AlN mole fraction of the barrier layer 221 is set. Set Xd in the range of 85% to 90%.
- the target value Xd of the AlN mole fraction of the barrier layer 221 is 1% or more from the AlN mole fraction of the semi-stable AlGaN (eye standard stable AlGaN) formed in the third Ga enriched region 221a, and the eye standard stable AlGaN. It is set within the range of less than the AlN mole fraction of the latest semi-stable AlGaN having a larger AlN mole fraction. Therefore, similarly to the first Ga-enriched region 21a of the n-type clad layer 21, the standard stable AlGaN can be stably formed in the third Ga-enriched region 221a, and the third Ga-enriched region 221a and the barrier.
- An AlN mole fraction difference of 1% or more is secured in the main body region 221b, and the carriers in the barrier layer 221 are localized in the third Ga enriched region 221a having a smaller bandgap energy than the barrier main body region 221b.
- the third Ga-enriched region 221a By constructing the third Ga-enriched region 221a with highly stable metastable AlGaN, fluctuations in the mixed crystal mole fraction caused by drift of the crystal growth apparatus are suppressed, and carrier localization in the barrier layer 221 is suppressed.
- the third Ga enriched region 221a in which the above occurs is stably formed at the AlN mole fraction corresponding to the metastable AlGaN used.
- the current can preferentially flow stably in the third Ga enriched region 221a in the barrier layer 221 as well as in the n-type clad layer 21, and further, the characteristic fluctuation of the light emitting element 1 is suppressed. Can be planned.
- the active layer 22 has two or more well layers 220 made of AlGaN-based semiconductors and one or more barriers made of AlGaN-based semiconductors or AlN-based semiconductors. It is assumed that the active layer 22 is composed of multiple quantum well structures in which layers 221 are alternately laminated, but the active layer 22 is a single quantum well structure having only one well layer 220, and the barrier layer 221 (quantum barrier layer). ) May not be provided. It is clear that the effect of the n-type clad layer 21 adopted in each of the above embodiments can be similarly exerted on such a single quantum well structure.
- the supply amount and the flow velocity of the raw material gas and the carrier gas used in the organometallic compound vapor phase growth method constitute the n-type clad layer 21. It was explained that it is set according to the average AlN mole fraction of the entire n-type AlGaN layer. That is, when the average AlN mole fraction of the entire n-type clad layer 21 is set to a constant value in the vertical direction, it is assumed that the supply amount and the flow velocity of the raw material gas or the like are controlled to be constant. .. However, the supply amount and the flow velocity of the raw material gas and the like do not necessarily have to be controlled to be constant.
- the plan view shape of the first region R1 and the p electrode 26 adopts a comb shape as an example, but the plan view shape is not limited to the comb shape. Further, a plurality of first regions R1 may exist, and each of them may have a plan view shape surrounded by one second region R2.
- the sapphire substrate 11 whose main surface has an off angle with respect to the (0001) surface is used and the base portion 10 in which the multi-tiered terrace is exposed on the surface of the AlN layer 12 is used.
- the size of the off-angle and the direction in which the off-angle is provided are set on the surface of the AlN layer 12. It may be arbitrarily determined as long as the multi-tiered terrace is exposed and the growth starting point of the first Ga enriched region 21a is formed.
- the light emitting element 1 including the base portion 10 including the sapphire substrate 11 is exemplified, but the sapphire substrate 11 (further, the base portion) is illustrated. Part or all of the layers contained in 10) may be removed by lift-off or the like. Further, the substrate constituting the base portion 10 is not limited to the sapphire substrate.
- the present invention can be used for a nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device including a light emitting device structure in which an n-type layer, an active layer, and a p-type layer made of an AlGaN-based semiconductor having a Wurtzite structure are laminated in the vertical direction. ..
- Nitride semiconductor ultraviolet light emitting device 10 Base part 11: Sapphire substrate 11a: Main surface of sapphire substrate 12: AlN layer 20: Light emitting element structure part 21: n-type clad layer (n-type layer) 21a: 1st Ga enriched region (n-type layer) 21b: n-type body region (n-type layer) 22: Active layer 220: Well layer 220a: Second Ga enriched region 220b: Well body region 221: Barrier layer 221a: Third Ga enriched region 221b: Barrier body region 23: Electronic block layer (p-type layer) 24: p-type clad layer (p-type layer) 25: p-type contact layer (p-type layer) 26: p electrode 27: n electrode 100: substrate 101: AlGaN-based semiconductor layer 102: template 103: n-type AlGaN-based semiconductor layer 104: active layer 105: p-type AlGaN-based semiconductor layer 106: p-type contact layer 107: n-elect
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Abstract
Description
前記n型層がn型AlGaN系半導体で構成され、
前記n型層と前記p型層の間に配置された前記活性層が、AlGaN系半導体で構成された1層以上の井戸層を含む量子井戸構造を有し、
前記p型層がp型AlGaN系半導体で構成され、
前記n型層と前記活性層内の各半導体層が、(0001)面に平行な多段状のテラスが形成された表面を有するエピタキシャル成長層であり、
前記n型層が、前記n型層内で一様に分散して存在する局所的にAlNモル分率の低い層状領域であって、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga1N2となっているn型AlGaN領域を含む複数の第1Ga富化領域を有し、
前記n型層の上面と直交する第1平面上での前記第1Ga富化領域の各延伸方向が、前記n型層の前記上面と前記第1平面との交線に対して傾斜しており、
前記井戸層の前記多段状のテラスの隣接するテラス間の境界領域部分が、同じ前記井戸層内で局所的にAlNモル分率の低い第2Ga富化領域を有し、
前記第2Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga2N3となっているAlGaN領域が存在していることを特徴とする窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子を提供する。
(0001)面に対して所定の角度だけ傾斜した主面を有するサファイア基板を含む下地部の上に、n型AlGaN系半導体の前記n型層をエピタキシャル成長し、前記n型層の表面に(0001)面に平行な多段状のテラスを表出させる第1工程と、
前記n型層の上に、AlGaN系半導体で構成された井戸層を1層以上含む量子井戸構造の前記活性層をエピタキシャル成長し、前記井戸層の表面に(0001)面に平行な多段状のテラスを表出させる第2工程と、
前記活性層の上に、p型AlGaN系半導体の前記p型層をエピタキシャル成長により形成する第3工程を有し、
前記第1工程において、前記n型層内で一様に分散して存在する局所的にAlNモル分率の低い層状領域であって、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga1N2となっているn型AlGaN領域を含む複数の第1Ga富化領域を斜め上方に向かって延伸するように成長させ、
前記第2工程において、前記井戸層の前記多段状のテラスの隣接するテラス間の境界領域部分に、同じ前記井戸層内で局所的にAlNモル分率の低い第2Ga富化領域を形成しつつ、前記第2Ga富化領域内にAlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga2N3となっているAlGaN領域を成長させることを特徴とする窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子の製造方法を提供する。
1)Al1Ga5N6、
2)Al2Ga4N6(=Al1Ga2N3)、
3)Al3Ga3N6(=Al1Ga1N2)、
4)Al4Ga2N6(=Al2Ga1N3)、
5)Al5Ga1N6。
6) Al1Ga11N12(=GaN+Al1Ga5N6)、
7) Al3Ga9N12(=Al1Ga3N4=Al1Ga5N6+Al1Ga2N3)、
8) Al5Ga7N12(=Al1Ga2N3+Al1Ga1N2)、
9) Al7Ga5N12(=Al1Ga1N2+Al2Ga1N3)、
10)Al9Ga3N12(=Al3Ga1N4=Al2Ga1N3+Al5Ga1N6)、
11)Al11Ga1N12(=Al5Ga1N6+AlN)。
1)前記バリア層のAlNモル分率の目標値を51%~66%の範囲内に設定して、前記第3Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga1N2となっているAlGaN領域を成長させる、または、
2)前記バリア層のAlNモル分率の目標値を68%~74%の範囲内に設定して、前記第3Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl2Ga1N3となっているAlGaN領域を成長させる、または、
3)前記バリア層のAlNモル分率の目標値を76%~82%の範囲内に設定して、前記第3Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl3Ga1N4となっているAlGaN領域を成長させる、または、
4)前記バリア層のAlNモル分率の目標値を85%~90%の範囲内に設定して、前記第3Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl5Ga1N6となっているAlGaN領域を成長させることが好ましい。
<発光素子の素子構造>
図4に示すように、本実施形態の発光素子1は、サファイア基板11を含む下地部10と、複数のAlGaN系半導体層21~25、p電極26、及び、n電極27を含む発光素子構造部20とを備える。発光素子1は、実装用の基台(サブマウント等)に発光素子構造部20側(図4における図中上側)を向けて実装される(フリップチップ実装される)ものであり、光の取出方向は下地部10側(図4における図中下側)である。尚、本明細書では、説明の便宜上、サファイア基板11の主面11a(または、下地部10及び各AlGaN系半導体層21~25の上面)に垂直な方向を「上下方向」(または、「縦方向」)と称し、下地部10から発光素子構造部20に向かう方向を上方向、その逆を下方向とする。また、上下方向に平行な平面を「第1平面」と称す。更に、サファイア基板11の主面11a(または、下地部10及び各AlGaN系半導体層21~25の上面)に平行な平面を「第2平面」と称し、該第2平面に平行な方向を「横方向」と称す。
次に、図4に例示した発光装置1の製造方法の一例について説明する。
次に、n型クラッド層21の断面観察用の試料を作製し、該試料からn型クラッド層21の上面に垂直(または略垂直)な断面を有する試料片を収束イオンビーム(FIB)で加工し、該試料片を走査型透過電子顕微鏡(STEM)で観察した結果を、図面を参照して説明する。
図13に、図5に示す井戸層220が3層、バリア層221が2層で構成された多重量子井戸構造を有する試料に対して、井戸層220の傾斜領域BA及びテラス領域TAの各CLスペクトルを測定した結果を示す。当該CL測定に使用した試料片は、n型クラッド層21内の組成分析をEDX法及びCL法で行った際の試料片と同様に作製した。
上記第1実施形態では、バリア層221が、AlNモル分率が100%でないAlGaN系半導体で構成される場合において、一例として、バリア層221の第3Ga富化領域221aを含む全体のAlNモル分率を50%~90%の範囲内とし、バリア本体領域221bのAlNモル分率を51%~90%の範囲内とし、第3Ga富化領域221aにおけるキャリアの局在化の効果を確保するために、第3Ga富化領域221aとバリア本体領域221bのAlNモル分率差を1%以上とすることを示した。
以下に、上記第1及び第2実施形態の変形例について説明する。
10: 下地部
11: サファイア基板
11a: サファイア基板の主面
12: AlN層
20: 発光素子構造部
21: n型クラッド層(n型層)
21a: 第1Ga富化領域(n型層)
21b: n型本体領域(n型層)
22: 活性層
220: 井戸層
220a: 第2Ga富化領域
220b: 井戸本体領域
221: バリア層
221a: 第3Ga富化領域
221b: バリア本体領域
23: 電子ブロック層(p型層)
24: p型クラッド層(p型層)
25: p型コンタクト層(p型層)
26: p電極
27: n電極
100: 基板
101: AlGaN系半導体層
102: テンプレート
103: n型AlGaN系半導体層
104: 活性層
105: p型AlGaN系半導体層
106: p型コンタクト層
107: n電極
108: p電極
BL: 第1領域と第2領域の境界線
BA: 境界領域(傾斜領域)
R1: 第1領域
R2: 第2領域
T: テラス
TA: テラス領域
Claims (13)
- ウルツ鉱構造のAlGaN系半導体からなるn型層、活性層、及びp型層が上下方向に積層された発光素子構造部を備えてなる窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子であって、
前記n型層がn型AlGaN系半導体で構成され、
前記n型層と前記p型層の間に配置された前記活性層が、AlGaN系半導体で構成された1層以上の井戸層を含む量子井戸構造を有し、
前記p型層がp型AlGaN系半導体で構成され、
前記n型層と前記活性層内の各半導体層が、(0001)面に平行な多段状のテラスが形成された表面を有するエピタキシャル成長層であり、
前記n型層が、前記n型層内で一様に分散して存在する局所的にAlNモル分率の低い層状領域であって、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga1N2となっているn型AlGaN領域を含む複数の第1Ga富化領域を有し、
前記n型層の上面と直交する第1平面上での前記第1Ga富化領域の各延伸方向が、前記n型層の前記上面と前記第1平面との交線に対して傾斜しており、
前記井戸層の前記多段状のテラスの隣接するテラス間の境界領域部分が、同じ前記井戸層内で局所的にAlNモル分率の低い第2Ga富化領域を有し、
前記第2Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga2N3となっているAlGaN領域が存在していることを特徴とする窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子。 - 前記n型層内の前記層状領域以外のn型本体領域のAlNモル分率が54%~66%の範囲内にあることを特徴とする請求項1に記載の窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子。
- 前記井戸層の前記境界領域部分以外のAlNモル分率が33.4%~37%の範囲内にあることを特徴とする請求項1または2に記載の窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子。
- 前記活性層が、2層以上の前記井戸層を含む多重量子井戸構造を有し、
2層の前記井戸層間にAlGaN系半導体で構成されたバリア層が存在することを特徴とする請求項1~3の何れか1項に記載の窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子。 - 前記バリア層がAlGaN系半導体で構成され、2層の前記井戸層間に位置する前記バリア層の内、少なくとも最も前記p型層側の前記バリア層の前記多段状のテラスの隣接するテラス間の境界領域部分が、同じ前記バリア層内で局所的にAlNモル分率の低い第3Ga富化領域を有することを特徴とする請求項4に記載の窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子。
- 前記バリア層の前記第3Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga1N2、Al2Ga1N3、Al3Ga1N4、または、Al5Ga1N6となっているAlGaN領域が存在することを特徴とする請求項5に記載の窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子。
- サファイア基板を含む下地部を、さらに備え、
前記サファイア基板は、(0001)面に対して所定の角度だけ傾斜した主面を有し、当該主面の上方に前記発光素子構造部が形成されており、
少なくとも前記サファイア基板の前記主面から前記活性層の表面までの各半導体層が、(0001)面に平行な多段状のテラスが形成された表面を有するエピタキシャル成長層であることを特徴とする請求項1~6の何れか1項に記載の窒化物半導体発光素子。 - ウルツ鉱構造のAlGaN系半導体からなるn型層、活性層、及びp型層が上下方向に積層された発光素子構造部を備えてなる窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子の製造方法であって、
(0001)面に対して所定の角度だけ傾斜した主面を有するサファイア基板を含む下地部の上に、n型AlGaN系半導体の前記n型層をエピタキシャル成長し、前記n型層の表面に(0001)面に平行な多段状のテラスを表出させる第1工程と、
前記n型層の上に、AlGaN系半導体で構成された井戸層を1層以上含む量子井戸構造の前記活性層をエピタキシャル成長し、前記井戸層の表面に(0001)面に平行な多段状のテラスを表出させる第2工程と、
前記活性層の上に、p型AlGaN系半導体の前記p型層をエピタキシャル成長により形成する第3工程を有し、
前記第1工程において、前記n型層内で一様に分散して存在する局所的にAlNモル分率の低い層状領域であって、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga1N2となっているn型AlGaN領域を含む複数の第1Ga富化領域を斜め上方に向かって延伸するように成長させ、
前記第2工程において、前記井戸層の前記多段状のテラスの隣接するテラス間の境界領域部分に、同じ前記井戸層内で局所的にAlNモル分率の低い第2Ga富化領域を形成しつつ、前記第2Ga富化領域内にAlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga2N3となっているAlGaN領域を成長させることを特徴とする窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子の製造方法。 - 前記第1工程において、前記n型層のAlNモル分率の目標値を54%~66%の範囲内に設定して、前記第1Ga富化領域内にAlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga1N2となっているn型AlGaN領域を成長させることを特徴とする請求項8に記載の窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子の製造方法。
- 前記第2工程において、前記井戸層のAlNモル分率の目標値を33.4%~37%の範囲内に設定して、前記第2Ga富化領域内にAlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga2N3となっているAlGaN領域を成長させることを特徴とする請求項8または9に記載の窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子の製造方法。
- 前記第2工程において、AlGaN系半導体で構成された前記井戸層とAlGaN系半導体で構成されたバリア層を交互にエピタキシャル成長により積層し、前記バリア層と前記井戸層の各表面に(0001)面に平行な多段状のテラスが表出した、前記井戸層を2層以上含む多重量子井戸構造の前記活性層を形成することを特徴とする請求項8~10の何れか1項に記載の窒化物半導体発光素子の製造方法。
- 前記第2工程において、AlGaN系半導体で構成された前記バリア層を形成する際に、2層の前記井戸層間に位置する前記バリア層の内、少なくとも最も前記p型層側の前記バリア層の前記テラス間の境界領域部分に同じ前記バリア層内で局所的にAlNモル分率の低い第3Ga富化領域を形成することを特徴とする請求項11に記載の窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子の製造方法。
- 前記第2工程において、
1)前記バリア層のAlNモル分率の目標値を51%~66%の範囲内に設定して、前記第3Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl1Ga1N2となっているAlGaN領域を成長させる、または、
2)前記バリア層のAlNモル分率の目標値を68%~74%の範囲内に設定して、前記第3Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl2Ga1N3となっているAlGaN領域を成長させる、または、
3)前記バリア層のAlNモル分率の目標値を76%~82%の範囲内に設定して、前記第3Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl3Ga1N4となっているAlGaN領域を成長させる、または、
4)前記バリア層のAlNモル分率の目標値を85%~90%の範囲内に設定して、前記第3Ga富化領域内に、AlGaN組成比が整数比のAl5Ga1N6となっているAlGaN領域を成長させることを特徴とする請求項12に記載の窒化物半導体紫外線発光素子の製造方法。
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