GaN HEMT Barrier Layer Structure With Spacer-Assisted Precision

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for fabricating high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) from GaN-based materials face challenges in achieving precise layer formation and structural integrity, which affects device performance and reliability.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the sequential formation of a buffer layer, first and second barrier layers, a p-type semiconductor layer, and spacers, along with a hard mask and electrode structures, using epitaxial growth and deposition processes such as MBE, MOCVD, and CVD, to create a stable and efficient HEMT structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional fabrication methods are used for HEMTs, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the structural integrity and layer formation precision are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer formation precisionVSAvoidfabrication process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fabrication process is divided into multiple sequential steps including forming first and second barrier layers with different aluminum compositions, creating p-type semiconductor layers, and forming spacers at specific positions. Each layer is formed with controlled thickness and composition gradients to achieve precise structural control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the device are assigned different material compositions and properties. The first barrier layer has a first aluminum composition while the second barrier layer has a second aluminum composition. P-type semiconductor layers are positioned specifically to modify local electrical characteristics, and spacers are formed adjacent to specific layers to control local geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If GaN-based materials are used for HEMTs, then electrical and mechanical properties are improved, but fabrication challenges increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice reliabilityVSAvoidfabrication ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The aluminum composition parameter is varied between the first barrier layer (first aluminum composition) and the second barrier layer (second aluminum composition) to optimize both electrical performance and fabrication characteristics. The p-type semiconductor layer introduces additional parameter control through doping concentration and thickness variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The HEMT structure employs composite material layers including GaN-based semiconductor layers, barrier layers with different aluminum compositions, and p-type semiconductor layers. Each material layer is selected and positioned to contribute specific electrical, mechanical, or structural properties to the overall device performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach enables the fabrication of HEMTs with improved structural integrity and performance, enhancing their electrical and mechanical properties, and enabling their use in various applications like LEDs and power devices.

Implementation Method 1

using epitaxial growth and deposition processes such as MBE, MOCVD, and CVD

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEpitaxy: Epitaxy

Implementation Method 2

using epitaxial growth and deposition processes such as MBE, MOCVD, and CVD

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChemical Vapour Deposition: Chemical Vapour Deposition

Data Source

PatentUS11749740B2High electron mobility transistor and method for fabricating the same
Publication Date: 2023.09.05 UNITED MICROELECTRONICS CORP
  • US11749740B2 patent drawing
  • US11749740B2 patent drawing
  • US11749740B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for fabricating high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) includes the steps of: forming a first barrier layer on a substrate; forming a p-type semiconductor layer on the first barrier layer; forming a hard mask on the p-type semiconductor layer; patterning the hard mask and the p-type semiconductor layer; and forming a spacer adjacent to the hard mask and the p-type semiconductor layer.