Experimental study of the proposed super-thermal-conductor: BAs
Abstract
Recent calculations predict a super-thermal-conductivity of ∼2000 Wm-1 K-1, comparable to that of diamond, in cubic boron arsenide (BAs) crystals, which may offer inexpensive insulators with super-thermal-conductivity for microelectronic device applications. We have synthesized and characterized single crystals of BAs with a zinc blende cubic structure and lattice parameters of a = 4.7830(7) Å. A relatively high thermal conductivity of ∼200 Wm-1 K-1 is obtained, close to those of best non-carbon crystal insulators, such as SiC, although still an order of magnitude smaller than the value predicted. Based on our XPS, X-ray single crystal diffraction, and Raman scattering results, steps to achieve the predicted super-thermal conductivity in BAs are proposed.
- Publication:
-
Applied Physics Letters
- Pub Date:
- February 2015
- DOI:
- 10.1063/1.4913441
- Bibcode:
- 2015ApPhL.106g4105L