The aim of this work is to study the positive charge relaxation after bidir
ectional electron injections in a p-metaloxide-silicon capacitor submitted
to a constant current. This relaxation is studied following two steps. When
the stressed sample is submitted to a nonstressing constant current, the p
ositive charge neutralisation follows an exponential law with time. This al
lows us to estimate the electron capture cross-section (approximate to 10(-
16) to approximate to 2 x 10(-15) cm(2)). When the sample is let without an
y applied field, the positive charge relaxation follows a logarithmic law w
ith time. It is also shown that the capture cross-section depends on the st
ress and relaxation times. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserv
ed.