An Improved Physics Based Numerical Model of Tunnel FET Using 2D NEGF Formalism

Abstract: In this work, we have investigated a 2D model of band-to-band tunneling based on 2-band model and implemented it using 2D NEGF formalism. Being 2D in nature, this model better addresses the variation in the directionality of the tunneling process occurring in most practical TFET device structures. It also works as a compromise between semi-classical and multiband quantum simulation of TFETs. In this work, we have presented a sound step by step mathematical development of the numerical model. We have also discussed how this model can be implemented in simulators and pointed out a few optimizations that can be made to reduce complexity and to save time. Finally, we have performed elaborate simulations for a practical TFET design and compared the results with commercially available TCAD simulations, to point out the limitations of the simplistic models that are frequently used, and how our model overcomes these limitations.