Undergraduate thesis studying the properties of amorphous silicon (⍺-Si) and crystalline silicon nanowires (c-Si NWs), focusing on the requirements placed on thin films by bolometers.
The UNT Honors College is dedicated to enriching the undergraduate academic experience for talented, motivated, and well-prepared students. The college offers its members many benefits, including challenging classes, training in research methods and skills, eligibility to live in Rawlins Hall or Honors Hall, and a supportive social and academic environment.
Undergraduate thesis studying the properties of amorphous silicon (⍺-Si) and crystalline silicon nanowires (c-Si NWs), focusing on the requirements placed on thin films by bolometers.
Physical Description
19 p.
Notes
Abstract: This work is a study on the properties of amorphous silicon (⍺-Si) and crystalline silicon nanowires (c-Si NWs), focusing on the requirements placed on thin films by bolometers. Efficient bolometer performance requires that thin films have low resistivity, high temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR), and negligible low frequency noise. However, ⍺-Si thin films are typically characterized by high resistivity and low signal-to-noise ratios. Reducing resistivity through doping is not practical. A possible solution lies in the fabrication of a hybrid nanocomposite, comprising of crystalline Si nanowires sandwiched between ⍺-Si thin films. To test this, we must analyze the electrical properties of both ⍺-Si and c-Si NWs. Thus, we must run 2-terminal. 4-terminal, and temperature dependent tests, in addition to Deep Level Transient Spectroscopy, on ⍺-Si. On c-Si NWs, we must run 2-terminal and 3-terminal tests, as well as Raman Spectroscopy. These tests will enable us to determine whether my hypothesis is supported. If this is so, we will have developed the potential to make bolometers more sensitive and potentially more efficient.
This document is part of the following collection of related materials.
UNT Undergraduate Student Works
This collection presents scholarly and artistic content created by undergraduate students. All materials have been previously accepted by a professional organization or approved by a faculty mentor. Most classroom assignments are not eligible for inclusion. The collection includes, but is not limited to Honors College theses, thesis supplemental files, professional presentations, articles, and posters. Some items in this collection are restricted to use by the UNT community.