Narrow gap semiconductors obey the general rules of semiconductor
science, but often exhibit extreme features of these rules because of
the same properties that produce their narrow gaps. Consequently these
materials provide sensitive tests of theory, and the opportunity for the
design of innovative devices. Narrow gap semiconductors are the most
important materials for the preparation of advanced modern infrared
systems.
Device Physics of Narrow Gap Semiconductors offers descriptions of the
materials science and device physics of these unique materials. Topics
covered include impurities and defects, recombination mechanisms,
surface and interface properties, and the properties of low dimensional
systems for infrared applications. This book will help readers to
understand not only semiconductor physics and materials science, but
also how they relate to advanced opto-electronic devices. The final
chapter describes the device physics of photoconductive detectors,
photovoltaic infrared detectors, super lattices and quantum wells,
infrared lasers, and single photon infrared detectors.