Bismuth (Bi)

Bismuth (Bi) is a chemical element with the symbol Bi and atomic number 83. In MBE systems, bismuth can be used as a dopant, which means it is introduced in small amounts to a semiconductor material in order to alter its electrical properties. Bismuth is a p-type dopant, which means it introduces positive charge carriers (holes) into the material, making it more conductive. This is useful for creating p-type semiconductors, which are used in electronic devices for their ability to conduct electrical current. Bismuth can also be used as a material in the construction of the vacuum chamber and other components in MBE systems.

There are several types of bismuth that can be used as a source in MBE systems, including:

1. Bismuth metal: This is a solid form of bismuth that can be evaporated in an MBE system.
2. Bismuth compounds: Bismuth can also be used in the form of compounds such as bismuth trichloride (BiCl3) or bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl). These compounds can be evaporated in an MBE system to deposit bismuth onto the substrate.
3. Bismuth oxide: Bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) can be used as a source in MBE systems, either as a solid or as a vapor. It can be evaporated using a resistive heating source or a laser.
4. Bismuth telluride: Bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) is a compound that is often used as a source in MBE systems for depositing thin films of tellurium. It can be evaporated using a resistive heating source or a laser.
5. Bismuth selenide: Bismuth selenide (Bi2Se3) is another compound that is often used as a source in MBE systems for depositing thin films of selenium. It can be evaporated using a resistive heating source or a laser.