Dark current in quantum dot infrared photodetectors

We present the results of a new analytical model for the analysis of the da rk current in realistic quantum dot infrared photodetectors (QDIPs), This m odel includes the effect of the space charge formed by electrons captured i n QDs and donors, the self-consistent electric potential in the QDIP active region, the activation character of the electron capture and its limitatio n by the Pauli principle, the thermionic electron emission from QDs and the rmionic injection of electrons From the emitter contact into the QDIP activ e region, and the existence of the punctures between QDs. The developed mod el yields the dark current as a function of the QDIP structural parameters, applied voltage, and temperature. It explains some features of the dark cu rrent characteristics observed experimentally.