Spontaneous vs. piezoelectric polarization in III-V nitrides: conceptual aspects and practical consequences

TL;DR

This paper clarifies the conceptual differences and practical implications of spontaneous and piezoelectric polarization in III-V nitride nanostructures, which are crucial for their optical and electrical properties.

Contribution

It provides a clearer understanding of how spontaneous and piezoelectric polarization contribute to built-in fields in nitride nanostructures, addressing conceptual ambiguities.

Findings

Clarification of spontaneous vs. piezoelectric polarization roles

Insights into polarization effects on nanostructure properties

Guidance for future nanostructure design

Abstract

Macroscopic polarization plays a major role in determining the optical and electrical properties of nitride nanostructures via polarization-induced built-in electrostatic fields. While currently fashionable, this field of endeavour is still by far in its early infancy. Here we contribute some clarifications on the conceptual issues involved in determining built-in fields in III-V nitride nanostructures, sorting out in particular the roles of spontaneous and piezoelectric polarization.