Neutron radiation tolerance of field-controlled thyristors

The effect of fast neutron irradiation up to fluences of 10¹³per cm²upon the static characteristics of field-controlled thyristors is described. The forward voltage drop of these devices increases similar to that of a p-i-n diode. The forward blocking capability is not only retained after neutron irradiation but an increase in forward blocking gain is observed due to carrier removal effect. These results indicate superior radiation tolerance compared with other three terminal power devices.