High dose (similar to 1 x 10(17)/cm(2)) channelled implantation of Er into
Si along the <1 1 1 > direction has been investigated. These doses are suit
able for channelled ion beam synthesis (CIBS) of ErSi1.7 layers. A study of
the influence of the implantation temperature between 470-800 degreesC and
the effect of the angle up to +/-5 degrees from the <1 1 1 > direction has
been carried out. Increasing the temperature results in significant improv
ements in the as-implanted material. The optimal temperature range is 600-7
00 degreesC. Higher temperatures result in diffusion of the implanted Er to
the surface where it is sputtered away by the incoming ions. Comparison of
the experimental angular dependence with simulations and theory shows good
agreement. Implantations at <4 degrees from the channelling direction form
a continuous silicide layer after annealing. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V
. All rights reserved.