ENERGY BAND QUANTIZATION IN HIGH ELECTRIC FIELDS

The electric field induced effect upon the optical transmission of semi-insulating gallium arsenide has been measured for photon energies of 1.455 to 1.48 eV. Electric fields up to approximately 100,000 V/cm were applied to two samples, approximately 40 microns in thickness at 85 degrees K and 15 degrees K. The experimental data agrees favorably with the theory of Callaway (Franz-Keldish Effect). The presence of the Wannier Levels, however, has not been observed. A technique for fabricating a sample package which is theoretically capable of withstanding electric field strength in excess of 100,000 V/cm is also discussed. (Author)