We report a systematic study of the feasibility of using directed self-assembly (DSA) in real product design for 7-nm fin field effect transistor (FinFET) technology. We illustrate a design technology co-optimization (DTCO) methodology and two test cases applying both line/space type and via/cut type DSA processes. We cover the parts of DSA process flow and critical design constructs as well as a full chip capable computational lithography framework for DSA. By co-optimizing all process flow and product design constructs in a holistic way using a computational DTCO flow, we point out the feasibility of manufacturing using DSA in an advanced FinFET technology node and highlight the issues in the whole DSA ecosystem before we insert DSA into manufacturing.
In this paper we will describe the development of a new 12% high transmission phase shift mask technology for use
with the 10 nm logic node. The primary motivation for this work was to improve the lithographic process window for
10 nm node via hole patterning by reducing the MEEF and improving the depth of focus (DOF). First, the simulated
MEEF and DOF data will be compared between the 6% and high T PSM masks with the transmission of high T mask
blank varying from 12% to 20%. This resulted in selection of a 12% transmission phase shift mask. As part of this
work a new 12% attenuated phase shift mask blank was developed. A detailed description and results of the key
performance metrics of the new mask blank including radiation durability, dry etch properties, film thickness, defect
repair, and defect inspection will be shared. In addition, typical mask critical dimension uniformity and mask minimum
feature size performance for 10 nm logic node via level mask patterns will be shown. Furthermore, the results of work
to optimize the chrome hard mask film properties to meet the final mask minimum feature size requirements will be
shared. Lastly, the key results of detailed lithographic performance comparisons of the process of record 6% and new
12% phase shift masks on wafer will be described. The 12% High T blank shows significantly better MEEF and larger
DOF than those of 6% PSM mask blank, which is consistent with our simulation data.
In this paper, we discuss the lithographic qualification of high transmission (High T) mask for Via and contact hole applications in 10nm node and beyond. First, the simulated MEEF and depth of focus (DoF) data are compared between the 6% and High T attnPSM masks with the transmission of High T mask blank varying from 12% to 20%. The 12% High T blank shows significantly better MEEF and larger DoF than those of 6% attnPSM mask blank, which are consistent with our wafer data. However, the simulations show no obvious advantage in MEEF and DoF when the blank transmittance is larger than 12%. From our wafer data, it has been seen that the common process window from High T mask is 40nm bigger than that from the 6% attnPSM mask. In the elongated bar structure with smaller aspect ratio, 1.26, the 12% High T mask shows significantly less develop CD pull back in the major direction. Compared to the High T mask, the optimized new illumination condition for 6% attnPSM shows limited improvement in MEEF and the DoF through pitch. In addition, by using the High T mask blank, we have also investigated the SRAF printing, side lobe printing and the resist profile through cross sections, and no patterning risk has been found for manufacturing. As part of this work new 12% High T mask blank materials and processes were developed, and a brief overview of key mask technology development results have been shared. Overall, it is concluded that the High T mask, 12% transmission, provides the most robust and extendable lithographic solution for 10nm node and beyond.
KEYWORDS: Etching, Metals, Reactive ion etching, Cadmium, Optical proximity correction, Data modeling, Semiconducting wafers, 3D modeling, Back end of line, Image processing
Self-Aligned Via (SAV) process is commonly used in back end of line (BEOL) patterning. As the technology node advances, tightening CD and overlay specs require continuous improvement in model accuracy of the SAV process. Traditional single layer Variable Etch Bias (VEB) model is capable of describing the micro-loading and aperture effects associated with the reactive ion etch (RIE), but it does not include effects from under layers. For the SAV etch, a multi-layer VEB model is needed to account for the etch restriction from metal trenches. In this study, we characterize via post-etch dimensions through pitch and through metal trench widths, and show that VEB model prediction accuracy for SAV CDs after SAV formation can be significantly improved by applying a multi-layer scheme. Using a multi-layer VEB, it is demonstrated that the output via size changes with varying trench dimensions, which matches the silicon results. The model also reports via shape post-etch as a function of trench environment, where elliptical vias are correctly produced. The multi-layer VEB model can be applied both multi-layer correction and verification in full chip flow. This paper will also suggest that the multi-layer VEB model can be used in other FEOL layers with interlayer etch process effects, such as gate cut, to support the robustness of new model.
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