Abstract
ABSTRACTThe formation of nickel germanide has been examined over a range of low temperatures (200-400 °C) in an attempt to minimize the thermal budget for the process. Cross-sectional Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) was used to determine the texture of the germanide layer and the morphology and constituent composition of the Ge/NiGe interface. The onset and completion of reaction between Ni and Ge were identified by means of a heated stage in combination with in-situ x-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. The stages of reaction were also monitored using measurements of sheet resistance of the germanides by the Van der Pauw technique. The results have shown that the minimum temperature for the initiation of reaction of Ni and Ge to form NiGe was 225 °C. However, an annealing temperature > 275 °C was necessary for the extensive (and practical) formation of NiGe. Between 200 and 300 °C, the duration of annealing required for the formation of NiGe was significantly longer than at higher temperatures. The stoichiometry of the germanide was very close to NiGe (1:1) as determined using energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS).
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.