Geometry dependence of 2-dimensional space-charge-limited currents

Abstract

The space-charge-limited current in a zero thickness planar thin film depends on the geometry of the electrodes. We present a theory which is to a large extent analytical and applicable to many different lay-outs. We show that a space-charge-limited current can only be sustained if the emitting electrode induces a singularity in the field and if the singularity induced by the collecting electrode is not too strong. For those lay-outs where no space-charge-limited current can be sustained for a zero thickness film, the real thickness of the film must be taken into account using a numerical model.