Critical evaluation of scattering models within the full band monte carlo simulation framework

Abstract

The full band Monte Carlo (MC) simulation framework is regarded as the most accurate method available to study high-field carrier transport in semiconductors. Its potential has been demonstrated in a large number of studies over the years. In this work we focus on how the quantum mechanical uncertainty at high scattering rates affects the validity of Fermi’s Golden Rule, which traditionally is the basis for the scattering handling in the MC method. Considering the uncertainty is important in for instance silicon carbide, which at moderate energies exhibits a scattering rate exceeding 10 14 s - 1 . The expression for time-dependent scattering rate is presented together with calculated rates for some initial states with acoustic as well as polar-optical phonon interaction. A first-order time-dependent algorithm for handling of scattering events in MC simulators is proposed.