Atomic Structure of Defects in GaN:Mg Grown with Ga Polarity

The atomic structure of characteristic defects (Mg-rich hexagonal pyramids and truncated pyramids) in GaN:Mg thin films grown with Ga polarity was determined at atomic resolution by reconstruction of the scattered electron wave in a transmission electron microscope. Small cavities within the defects have inside walls covered by GaN of reverse polarity. We propose that lateral overgrowth of the cavities restores matrix polarity on the defect base. From matrix to defect, exchange of Ga and N sublattices leads to a 0.6±0.2 displacement of Ga sublattices. We observe a [1100]/3 shift from matrix $AB$ stacking to $BC$ stacking for the entire pyramid. Electron energy loss spectroscopy detected changes in N edge and presence of oxygen on the defect walls. Our results explain commonly observed decrease of acceptor concentration in heavily doped GaN:Mg.