We interpret SiC polytypes as natural superlattices, consisting of mutually twisted cubic layers. A method is presented to calculate the electron band structure of any polytype, based on an empirical pseudopotential description of cubic SiC. Bloch and evanescent waves, belonging to cubic layers are matched at interfaces in order to make up the wave functions of the respective polytypes. Band gaps of hexagonal and rhombohedral modifications are in excellent agreement with experimental data such that the nearly linear relationship between the indirect gap and the hexagonal nature is reproduced. A simple explanation of this relationship is given in terms of a Kronig-Penney-like model.

• Received 13 October 1993

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.49.7564