GaN epilayers on nanopatterned GaN/Si(1 1 1) templates: Structural and optical characterization

Template-based nanoscale epitaxy has been explored to realize high-quality GaN on Si(1 1 1) substrates. We have employed polystyrene-based nanosphere lithography to form the nano-hole array patterns on GaN/Si(1 1 1) template and then, subsequent regrowth of GaN is carried out by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). During the initial growth stage of GaN on such nanopatterned substrates, we have observed formation of nanoislands with hexagonal pyramid shape due to selective area epitaxy. With further epitaxial regrowth, these nanoislands coalesce and form continuous GaN film. The overgrown GaN on patterned and non-patterned regions is characterized by high-resolution X-ray diffraction (HRXRD) and high-spatial resolution optical spectroscopic methods. Micro-photoluminescence (PL), micro-Raman scattering and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) have been used to assess the microstructural and optical properties of GaN. Combined PL and Raman data analyses show improved optical quality when compared to GaN simultaneously grown on non-patterned bulk Si(1 1 1). Such thicker GaN templates would be useful to achieve III-nitride-based opto- and electronic devices integrated on Si substrates.