Effects of Neutron Radiation on Resonant Cavity Light-Emitting Diodes

Author

Daniel S. Hinkel

Date of Award

12-1995

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering

Department

Department of Engineering Physics

First Advisor

Paul H. Ostidiek, PhD

Abstract

Resonant Cavity Light Emitting Diodes (RCLEDs) were irradiated in Ohio State University's nuclear reactor to determine the effects of Neutron displacement damage. The RCLEDs were characterized both before and after irradiation by their current versus voltage curves (I-V curves) and external light power versus current curves (L-I curves). The I-V curves showed an increase in the "knee voltage" at a neutron fluence of 1.45x10¹⁷ neutrons/cm2. Logarithmic decreases in external light power and differential quantum efficiency were observed. Significant decreases in external light power were observed at neutron fluences greater than 5.1x10¹³ neutrons/cm². Equations were developed to predict the changes in external light power at a given bias current and the differential quantum efficiency for neutron fluences between 10¹⁰ neutrons/cm² to 10¹⁸ neutrons/cm². The damage constants for these equations were derived from the irradiation data. Finally, there was no significant changes in the RCLED output spectral distribution at neutron fluences up to 3x10¹⁵ neutrons/cm².

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GEO-ENP-95D-01

DTIC Accession Number

ADA303220

Recommended Citation

Hinkel, Daniel S., "Effects of Neutron Radiation on Resonant Cavity Light-Emitting Diodes" (1995). Theses and Dissertations. 6212.
https://scholar.afit.edu/etd/6212