Patent ID: 10720543

Abstract:
A germanium photodetector which reduces a dark current without degradation of a photocurrent includes: a silicon substrate; a lower clad layer formed on the silicon substrate; a core layer formed on the lower clad layer; a p-type silicon slab formed in a part of the core layer and doped with a p-type impurity ion; p++ silicon electrode sections that are highly-doped with a p-type impurity and act as an electrode; and germanium layers which absorb light. The germanium photodetector further includes an upper clad layer, an n-type germanium region doped with an n-type impurity above the germanium layer, and an electrode. According to the present invention, two germanium layers are provided on the p-type silicon slab so as to miniaturize the area of the surface of the individual germanium layer in contact with the p-type silicon slab, so that the dark current due to threading dislocation can be reduced.