Combined photoluminescence-imaging and deep-level transient spectroscopy of recombination processes at stacking faults in 4H-SiC

We report on electronic properties of single- and double-layer stacking faults in 4H-SiC and provide an insight into apparent distinctions of recombination-enhanced defect reactions at these faults. Photoluminescence imaging spectroscopy and deep-level transient spectroscopy experiments reveal key constituents of radiative recombination and also provide firm evidence of nonradiative centers at E-V+0.38 eV responsible for recombination-enhanced mobility of silicon-core partial dislocations. A comprehensive energy level model is proposed allowing for a qualitative description of recombination activity at different types of stacking faults and the corresponding bounding partial dislocations.