Interdiffusion in group IV semiconductor material systems: applications, research methods and discoveries

Group IV semiconductor alloys and heterostructures such as SiGe, GeSn, Ge/Si and SiGe:C have been widely used and under extensive research for applications in major microelectronic and photonic devices. In the growth and processing of these materials, nanometer scale interdiffusion is common, which is generally undesirable for device performance. With higher Ge molar fractions and higher compressive strains, Si-Ge interdiffusion can be much faster than dopant diffusion. However, Si-Ge interdiffusion behaviors have not been well understood until recent years. Much less studies are available for GeSn. This review starts with basic properties and the applications of major group IV semiconductors, and then reviews the progress made so far on Si-Ge and Ge-Sn interdiffusion behaviors. Theories, experimental methods, design and practical considerations are discussed together with the key findings in this field.