In this unit, you’ll examine semiconductor device physics, including energy band diagrams, Fermi levels, work functions, and carrier transport phenomena across a range of inorganic and organic semiconductors—both ordered and disordered materials. You’ll dive into the principles and models of key devices such as PN junctions, metal-semiconductor junctions (Schottky and Ohmic), heterojunctions, diodes, BJTs, HBTs, MOSFETs, HEMTs, CMOS, and TFTs. You'll also study simulations of heterojunction materials and devices, as well as optoelectronic devices like photovoltaic (PV) solar cells and LEDs. The unit includes organic semiconductor devices such as OLEDs, organic solar cells, and OTFTs. You’ll also cover memory devices in detail, including memristor concepts and design.
The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.
Propose approaches to optimise the performance and efficiency of organic semiconductors and TFTs, addressing sustainability and ethical considerations in semiconductor technology.
Design and develop advanced models for semiconductor devices such as PN junctions, MOSFETs, and HEMTs, analysing their performance using simulation tools.
Formulate and evaluate solutions for complex semiconductor memory devices, including memristors, using experimental data and simulation to address technical challenges.
Create and validate electronic and optoelectronic device designs, such as PV solar cells or OLEDs, by integrating principles of carrier transport phenomena and energy band diagrams.
