Demonstration and modeling of unipolar-carrier-conduction GaN Schottky-pn junction diode with low turn-on voltage

By introducing a thin p-type layer between the Schottky metal and n-GaN layer, this work presents a Schottky-pn junction diode (SPND) configuration for the GaN rectifier fabrication. Specific unipolar carrier conduction characteristic is demonstrated by the verification of temperature-dependent current–voltage ( I – V ) tests and electroluminescence spectra. Meanwhile, apparently advantageous forward conduction properties as compared to the pn diode fabricated on the same wafer have been achieved, featuring a lower turn-on voltage of 0.82 V. Together with the analysis model established in the GaN SPND for a wide-range designable turn-on voltage, this work provides an alternative method to the GaN rectifier strategies besides the traditional solution.