The effect of Inductively Coupled Plasma H-2 or Ar discharges on the breakd
own voltage of p-GaN diodes was measured over a range of ion energies and f
luxes. The main effect of plasma exposure is a decrease in net acceptor con
centration to depths of 400-550 Angstrom. At high ion fluxes or energies th
ere can be type conversion of the initially p-GaN surface. Post etch anneal
ing at 900 degrees C restores the initial conductivity.