AlInN for Vertical Power Electronic Devices

The known benefits and challenges of AlInN as a next-generation power electronic semiconductor are presented. AlxIn1-xN is lattice matched to GaN at x = 0.82 and has the advantages of an available substrate, a wide bandgap (similar to 4.4 eV), and high mobility (similar to 450 cm(2)/V . s). The power figure of merit (FOM), determined using empirical and theoretical values of mobility and estimated critical electric fields determined from reported bandgaps, spans from similar to 20% to 130% times greater than GaN. In order to realize and precisely determine these high AlInN FOM values, experimental challenges will need to be overcome such as polarization-induced electric fields and bandgap discontinuities at AlInN/GaN interfaces, and controlling carrier concentration levels.