Abstract
The electrical storage mechanism in GeSbTe phase change materials is discussed in terms of their gap states using GeTe as a model system. The lowest energy defect in crystalline rhombohedral GeTe phase is the Ge vacancy, because it reconstructs along the resonant bonding directions. The lowest energy in amorphous GeTe is the divalent Te atom, which creates overlapping band-tail states that pin Fermi level EFnear midgap. In contrast, the lowest cost defect in disordered phase in GeSbTe superlattices is the Te interstitial whose negative correlation energy pins EFnear midgap.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 125305 |
Journal | Physical Review B - Condensed Matter and Materials Physics |
Volume | 85 |
Issue number | 12 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 13 Mar 2012 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
- Condensed Matter Physics