Room-temperature quantum-constriction rectifier

Abstract

A simple quantum structure is proposed which is predicted to operate as a reliable rectifier at room temperatures. This diode for the nanostructures is a quantum wire with an asymmetric quantum constriction (AQC) which works in the coherent transport regime. We find that an AQC structure acts like a Schottky barrier if the constriction gradually widens between two parts of a quantum wire. Such device geometry creates an asymmetric barrier which could enable the forward currents three orders of magnitude higher than the reverse currents, at T = 300 K. The current-voltage characteristics of the proposed rectifier have regions of negative differential resistance (NDR) and multiple peaks. Structurally imperfect mesoscopic diodes retain rectifying features, although the actual I-V characteristics are different in comparison to the perfect devices.