Abstract
This article explores the intrinsic significance of EBIC maps, looking at the specific case of ridge laser structures, but starting from a much more general approach: the Reciprocity Theorem for Charge Collection first exploited by Donolato in 1985. It provides information on non destructive testing for structural analysis and defect detection in double heterostructure ridge lasers answering the questions about the significance of EBIC maps. Taking full advantage of both direct EBIC theory and Reciprocity Theorem, most of the observed features of EBIC images are analyzed. It can be concluded that any EBIC detected defect indicates an active scattering and recombination point for minority carriers in operating conditions: no uneffective defects may be claimed; and non isotropic comas may not be read as broadening of a stronger defect kernel: they are related to real defect extension.
