Radiation-Induced Oxide Layer Defect Detection via Leakage Current

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting radiation-induced defects in the oxide layer of electronic devices are inefficient, inaccurate, and lack sensitivity, making it difficult to assess the state of these defects effectively.

Innovation Solution

A detection method involving the preparation of a test sample with a semiconductor substrate, electrodes, and a grid-shaped groove pattern, followed by applying electric fields and radiation to measure leakage current changes to identify electron and hole traps in the oxide layer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing micro-analysis means are used to detect defect states, then the detection process can be performed, but the sensitivity is low and the method is incapable of checking radiation-induced defects of the oxide layer

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoiddetection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism using leakage current measurement as a mediator to indirectly detect trapped charges in the oxide layer. Instead of directly observing defect states with insufficient sensitivity, the method measures the electrical current through the oxide layer, where trapped charges manifest as measurable current variations, thereby achieving high-sensitivity detection of radiation-induced defects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex micro-analysis equipment with a simpler electrical measurement system. By substituting mechanical/optical analysis methods with electrical current measurement, the system achieves higher sensitivity and capability to detect radiation-induced defects in the oxide layer through leakage current characteristics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If radiation-induced defects are detected in oxide layers, then defect states can be identified, but existing methods are inefficient and inaccurate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddetection efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The oxide layer itself serves as the detection medium by utilizing its own electrical characteristics (leakage current) to reveal defect states. The trapped charges in the oxide layer naturally create measurable current variations without requiring external complex analysis equipment, enabling efficient and accurate detection through the material's intrinsic properties

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent detects defect states by measuring changes in electrical parameters (leakage current) of the oxide layer before and after radiation exposure. By monitoring parameter variations rather than attempting direct defect visualization, the method achieves both high accuracy and efficiency in detecting radiation-induced defects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables rapid and accurate identification of radiation-induced defects in oxide layers, reducing test expenses and enhancing the reliability of electronic devices through precise determination of trapped electron and hole concentrations.

Implementation Method 1

The oxygen vacancy defects may trap holes and may also trap electrons. When there is a lack of oxygen atoms between two adjacent silicon atoms, a bonding force between the two silicon atoms is relatively weak, and surrounding holes or electrons may be relatively easily trapped

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCharge trapping:

Implementation Method 2

When an electronic device is radiated, electron-hole pairs may be generated in a semiconductor material and an oxide layer in the electronic devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadiation-induced electron-hole pair generation: Radiation

Implementation Method 3

the remaining electron-hole pairs will be diffused or drifted away under the action of a concentration gradient or electric field. In the oxide layer, the migration rate of electrons differs from that of holes a lot

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCharge migration:

Data Source

PatentUS12352708B2Detection method for the radiation-induced defects of oxide layer in electronic devices
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 HARBIN INST OF TECH
  • US12352708B2 patent drawing
  • US12352708B2 patent drawing
  • US12352708B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a detection method for radiation-induced defects of an oxide layer in electronic devices. The detection method includes the following steps: selecting a semiconductor material to be prepared into a substrate; preparing a back electrode on an upper surface of the substrate; growing an oxide layer on the back electrode; etching one side of the oxide layer, and exposing an etched part out of the back electrode; preparing a front electrode on an upper surface of the oxide layer; forming a plurality of grooves in the front electrode, and distributing the plurality of grooves in a grid shape to prepare a test sample; and performing a radiation test on the test sample, and detecting radiation-induced defects. By using the detection method provided by the present invention, rapid identification and detection of electrons and holes are achieved.