Effects of electrochemical sulfide passivation on electrical properties of Au/n-Hg 3 In 2 Te 6 Schottky contact

Abstract The influence of electrochemical sulfide passivation on the electronic properties of Au/n-Hg 3 In 2 Te 6 Schottky contact was analyzed by photoelectron spectroscopy and I–V measurement. Through photoelectron spectroscopy, it was obtained that the element concentration of Te decreased and In-S and Hg-S bonds appeared in surface after passivation. Meanwhile, Fermi level was depinned due to the sulfide passivation, which is proved by the rise of work function. In addition, the leakage current of Au/n-Hg 3 In 2 Te 6 Schottky contact reduced, owing to the decrease in the density of surface states. Thus this method is of effective capability to suppress leakage current and modify rectifying behavior.