Simulation of near-infrared photodiode detectors based on β-FeSi₂/4H-SiC heterojunction

In this paper, we propose the near-infrared p-type β-FeSi₂/n-type 4H-SiC heterojunction photodetector with semiconducting silicide (β-FeSi₂) as the active region for the first time. Optoelectronic characteristics of the photodetector are simulated using a commercial simulator at room temperature. The results show that the photodetector has a good rectifying character and a good response to the near-infrared light. Interface states should be minimized to obtain a lower reverse leakage current. The response spectrum of the β-FeSi₂/4H-SiC detector, which consists of a p-type β-FeSi₂ absorption layer with a doping concentration of 1×10¹⁵ cm^-3 and a thickness of 2.5 μm, has a peak of 755 mA/W at 1.42 μm. The illumination of the SiC side obtains a higher responsivity than that of the β-FeSi₂ side. The results illustrate that the β-FeSi₂/4H-SiC heterojunction can be used as a near-infrared photodetector compatible with near-infrared optically-activated SiC-based power switching devices.