Direct Observation of Dopants Distribution and Diffusion in GaAs Planar Nanowires with Atom Probe Tomography

Intentional and unintentional doping in semiconductor nanowires undoubtedly have significant impact on the device performance. However, spatially resolved precise determination of dopant concentration is challenging due to insufficient sensitivity and resolution of conventional techniques. In this paper, quantitative 3D distribution of Si and Zn dopants in planar GaAs nanowires and their interface with AlGaAs film underneath are obtained by using a unique atom probe tomography technique, providing critical insights for the growth and potential applications of these nanowires.