The influence of surface properties on the characteristics of formed point contacts on p-type germanium

The factors influencing the properties of formed whisker contacts on p-type germanium are discussed in the light of an electro-forming theory proposed by Drake and Sim. 1, 2 Results showing the effect of surface treatment and ambient atmosphere on diode characteristics are presented, together with measurements of surface recombination and surface potential, made under similar conditions. A tentative theory is advanced explaining the diode characteristics in terms of the surface properties of the material.