Structure and Chemistry across Interfaces at Nanoscale of a Ge Quantum Well Embedded within Rare Earth Oxide Layers

Abstract Structure and chemistry across the rare earth oxide-Ge interfaces of a Gd₂O₃-Ge-Gd₂O₃ heterostructure grown on p-Si (111) substrate using encapsulated solid phase epitaxy method have been studied at nanoscale using various transmission electron microscopy methods. The structure across both the interfaces was investigated using reconstructed phase and amplitude at exit plane. Chemistry across the interfaces was explored using elemental mapping, high-angle annular dark-field imaging, electron energy loss spectroscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry. Results demonstrate the structural and chemical abruptness of both the interfaces, which is most essential to maintain the desired quantum barrier structure.