High-quality AlN epilayers prepared by atomic layer deposition and large-area rapid electron beam annealing.

Low-temperature atomic layer deposition and high-temperature electron beam annealing (EBA) are used to achieve high-quality epitaxial AlN layers. Efficient energy transfer from the single exposure for only 1 min of electron irradiation with a large area contributes to substantial improvement in the film density and crystal quality of AlN thin films, as demonstrated by the X-ray reflectivity and the θ-2θ/ω-scan X-ray diffraction. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy indicates well-arranged lattice fringes in the epitaxial AlN layer on a sapphire substrate. A low surface roughness of the AlN epilayer, as revealed by the atomic force microscopy, suggests that the damage induced by the EBA treatment is insignificant. The outcomes indicate that the large-area rapid EBA is a low-damage and efficient technique for the recrystallization of thin films prepared at low temperatures. • AlN epilayers are prepared by atomic layer deposition and electron beam annealing. • Large-area electron beam annealing in a single exposure for a short treatment. • Electron irradiation leads to significant enhancement of crystal/physical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]