Nonuniform Composition Profile in In0.5Ga0.5As Alloy Quantum Dots

We use cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy to examine the shape and composition distribution of In_0.5Ga_0.5As quantum dots (QDs) formed by capping heteroepitaxial islands. The QDs have a truncated pyramid shape. The composition appears highly nonuniform, with an In-rich core having an inverted-triangle shape. Thus the electronic properties will be drastically altered, relative to the uniform composition generally assumed in device modeling. Theoretical analysis of the QD growth suggests a simple explanation for the unexpected shape of the In-rich core.