Application of resolution enhancement techniques in thin film head processing

Lijun Tong; Joyce Hsiang; Johnny Gossett; Gary Newman; Kelly J. Abreau; Tzu-chin Chuang

doi:10.1117/12.350869

14 June 1999 Application of resolution enhancement techniques in thin film head processing

Lijun Tong, Joyce Hsiang, Johnny Gossett, Gary Newman, Kelly J. Abreau, Tzu-chin Chuang

Proceedings Volume 3677, Metrology, Inspection, and Process Control for Microlithography XIII; (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.350869
Event: Microlithography '99, 1999, Santa Clara, CA, United States

Abstract

As thin film head (TFH) processing advances with magneto resistive (MR) and giant magneto resistive (GMR) designs, the photolithographic requirements for the write portion of the device grow increasingly challenging. Specifically, the resolution of submicron isolated features is required in thick photoresist films; resulting in aspect ratios of nearly 10 to 1. To satisfy the imaging requirements of critical read and write-layers, the use of i-line reduction lithography tools with variable numerical aperture (NA) and partial coherence are necessary. This study examines the influence of NA, (sigma) , and reticle bias on critical feature in typical TFH write-layer processes. Optimal reticle bias was estimated through simulation and confirmed experimentally. Combinations of NA and (sigma) were investigated for their impact on minimum feature size, process latitude, and sidewall angle for multiple resist thicknesses. Process latitude was quantified for each illumination condition over a range of focus and exposure conditions with the use of a low-voltage, automated TFH CD- SEM. A focused ion beam tool and SEM are used to examine wall angels at each of the illumination conditions.

Citation Download Citation

Lijun Tong, Joyce Hsiang, Johnny Gossett, Gary Newman, Kelly J. Abreau, and Tzu-chin Chuang "Application of resolution enhancement techniques in thin film head processing", Proc. SPIE 3677, Metrology, Inspection, and Process Control for Microlithography XIII, (14 June 1999); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.350869

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available