Geometrical-induced rectification in two-dimensional ballistic nanodevices

TL;DR

This paper shows that two-dimensional ballistic nanodevices with non-uniform cross sections can rectify electric signals without p-n junctions, applicable to systems described by Schrödinger or Dirac equations.

Contribution

It introduces a geometrical rectification mechanism in 2D ballistic nanodevices independent of traditional p-n junctions or electrode differences.

Findings

Rectification occurs in devices with tapered geometries.

Both Schrödinger and Dirac systems exhibit rectification.

No p-n junctions needed for rectification.

Abstract

The paper demonstrates that a two-dimensional ballistic nanodevice in which the electron gas satisfies either the Schroodinger equation (as in quantum wells in common semiconductor heterostructures) or the Dirac equation (as in graphene) is able to rectify an electric signal if the device has a non-uniform cross section, for instance a taper configuration. No p-n junctions or dissimilar electrodes are necessary for rectification.