Current snap-back and negative differential resistance in layered PnνN structures

Abstract
This article reports an anomalous snap-back in the forward I–V characteristics of high power rectifiers having a buffer layer. The buffer layer is located at the rectifying junction. It is shown with the help of theoretical analysis and numerical simulations that the snap-back occurs due to a delay in the onset of high-level injection in the drift region. Conditions are identified for the observation of such an effect. Current density at which the snap-back occurs and the extent of the fall in voltage are shown to be strongly dependent on the doping, width and carrier lifetime of the buffer layer.

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