Abstract

The effect of metal induced crystallization (MIC) is widely used in the production of electronic devices by forming large grained polycrystalline Si from amorphous Si in contact with Al. This effect can also be utilized in conjunction with silicon-germanium (SiGe) alloys and thus provides means of a possible low cost production of future high temperature thermoelectric devices. In this work, sputter deposited multilayer systems of Si80Ge20/Al thin films have been investigated. The effect of MIC is used to crystallize the initially amorphous SiGe while simultaneously doping it with Al. As metallic phases would be detrimental to the thermoelectric performance, special interest is directed to the Al layers and their dissociation during the annealing treatment. A percolation limit regarding the thickness and continuity of the Al layers was found, but no detrimental side effects with respect to the MIC process could be detected.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

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.