Enhanced performances of InGaN/GaN-based blue light-emitting diode with InGaN/AlInGaN superlattice electron blocking layer

InGaN/AlInGaN superlattice (SL) is designed as the electron blocking layer (EBL) of an InGaN/GaN-based light-emitting diode (LED). The energy band structure, polarization field at the last-GaN-barrier/EBL interface, carrier concentration, radiative recombination rate, electron leakage, internal quantum efficiency (IQE), current—voltage (I—V) performance curve, light output—current (L—I) characteristic, and spontaneous emission spectrum are systematically numerically investigated using APSYS simulation software. It is found that the fabricated LED with InGaN/AlInGaN SL EBL exhibits higher light output power, low forward voltage, and low current leakage compared with those of its counterparts. Meanwhile, the efficiency droop can be effectively mitigated. These improvements are mainly attributed to the higher hole injection efficiency and better electron confinement when InGaN/AlInGaN SL EBL is used.