Fermi level depinning at the germanium Schottky interface through sulfur passivation

Abstract

We demonstrate the depinning of Fermi level on both p- and n-type germanium after sulfur passivation by aqueous (NH4)2S treatment. Schottky contacts realized using metals with a wide range of work functions produce nearly ideal behavior confirming that the Fermi level is depinned. Examination of the passivated surface using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveals bonding between Ge and sulfur. It is shown that good Ohmic contacts to n-type Ge and a hole barrier height (ϕBp) of 0.6 eV to p-type Ge can be achieved after this passivation treatment, with Zr Schottky contacts. This is the highest ϕBp reported so far.