Method for forming planarized etch mask structures over existing topography

Abstract

A method used to create small pattern features over existing topography variations. The method includes providing a substrate having a surface having non-planar surface variations; forming a multi-stack layer over the substrate, by applying a first carbon layer over the substrate, with the resultant first carbon layer having non-planar surface variations corresponding to the non-planar surface variations of the underlying substrate, followed by applying a second planarizing layer over the first carbon layer; depositing a hard mask on the multi-stack layer; forming a patterned layer on the hard mask, the formed patterned layers having features; and performing one or more etch steps to etch the formed patterned layer features into the multi-layer stack. The multi-layer stack has a composite effective mechanical stiffness (Eeff) sufficient to maintain the one or more etched features with minimal feature collapse.

Description

BACKGROUND INFORMATION[0001]Nano-fabrication includes the fabrication of very small structures that have features on the order of 100 nanometers or smaller. One application in which nano-fabrication has had a sizeable impact is in the processing of integrated circuits. The semiconductor processing industry continues to strive for larger production yields while increasing the circuits per unit area formed on a substrate; therefore nano-fabrication becomes increasingly important. Nano-fabrication provides greater process control while allowing continued reduction of the minimum feature dimensions of the structures formed.[0002]Exemplary nano-fabrication techniques in current use for patterning the features that form these structures include optical lithography, photolithography, nanoimprint lithography, extreme ultraviolet lithography and electron beam lithography, and the like. However, as feature sizes shrink to dimensions less than 100 nanometers, it becomes more difficult to maint...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a method of creating small pattern features over existing non-planar surface variations. The method involves applying layers of material to the substrate and depositing a hard mask. The multi-layer stack has a composite effect mechanical stiffness that is sufficient to maintain the etched features with minimal feature collapse. This method can be used to create precise pattern features over non-planar surfaces.

Problems solved by technology

However, as feature sizes shrink to dimensions less than 100 nanometers, it becomes more difficult to maintain the aspect ratios necessary for high fidelity pattern transfer, particularly when other factors such as topography variations on the existing substrate surface are introduced.

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