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Reactive ion etching of epitaxial ZnSe thin films

Journal Article · · J. Vac. Sci. Technol., B; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1116/1.584195· OSTI ID:6690905
Using mixtures of boron trichloride and argon, we show it is possible to reactive ion etch epitaxial thin films of ZnSe grown on GaAs. Optimum etching conditions were determined by the application of a model generated from the multiple linear regression of the independent variables affecting the etching process. These variables included the power, pressure, gas composition, and time of etch. Optimum etching conditions produced etched structures with straight sidewalls and smooth surfaces. Photolithographically defined structures included both micrometer sized stripes and pixel arrays. Cathodoluminescence was measured from the surfaces of these etched structures and from the surface of unetched material at room temperature. Luminescence intensities of broad flat etched surfaces are shown not to be degraded by the etching process. This suggests the possibility of efficient etched light emitting structures.
Research Organization:
Bell Communications Research, Red Bank, New Jersey 07701
OSTI ID:
6690905
Journal Information:
J. Vac. Sci. Technol., B; (United States), Journal Name: J. Vac. Sci. Technol., B; (United States) Vol. 6:6; ISSN JVTBD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English