Real-Time Observation of High Temperature Interface between SiC Substrate and Solution during Dissolution of SiC

Precise morphological control of the interface between SiC and solution during the solution growth of SiC is crucial for obtaining high quality crystals with fewer defects and less step bunching. In this paper, a new technique for real-time observation of the high temperature interface between SiC and solution through the back surface of SiC was developed by focusing on the “wide” bandgap of SiC. Real-time observation of the interface during dissolution of SiC into an Fe-Si solvent alloy was carried out using a digital microscope, and the submicron-height structure of the solid-liquid interface was clearly observed at up to 1773 K. Interface morphologies, such as numerous hexagonal pits which were present at the initial stage of dissolution, followed by preferential dissolution in the lateral direction, were observed.