New bottom anti-reflective coatings (BARCs) have been developed that can be incorporated into multiple patterning
schemes utilizing scanner-track-only processes. The BARCs have modifiable optical properties and can be removed
during the resist development step. Several dual patterning schemes were investigated for trench printing. The most
promising process produced 110 nm trenches with approximately 1:1 space ratios. The etch characteristics of these
BARCs under fluorinated and oxygenated gases were determined.
A polymer etch rate monitor (PERM) was designed to quantify rates of base-soluble polymeric materials by measuring electric signals. The thickness of a thin film was demonstrated to be proportional to the electric resistance of the polymer coating. The applicability of the electric cell design for characterizing the dissolution of polymer coatings was demonstrated. Characterization of the electric signal versus the developing process revealed distinctive steps and mechanisms of the dissolution process. Scanning electron microscopy provided some insight into the dissolution process and the interaction between polymeric coatings and base. The correlation between dissolution rate and the concentration of base was investigated. Also investigated was the relationship between dissolution rate of polymeric coating and its thermal curing parameter. This monitor is able to provide instant information about the dissolution process as well as the etch rate in the base solution. Not only can the overall dissolution rate be measured, but the dissolution behavior and interaction can also be interpreted by analyzing the dissolving curve. This instrument has been used successfully for quality control purposes. Currently, the applicability of this device for photosensitive polymeric coatings is being evaluated.
The list of desired properties for a spin-on 193-nm BARC steadily increases. In response, crosslinkable polymers from different chemical families than the conventional acrylics and vinyls are being studied for applicability in preparing improved thermosetting BARCs. Alternate polymer platforms discussed in this paper include polyethers, polyesters, polyurethanes, and polysaccharides. A BARC that uses a blend or mixture of commercially-available polymers for the binder is highlighted and the product's performance is described. The BARC parameters that are discussed include film properties, flash point, optical data and reflectivity, solution and spin-bowl compatibility, plasma etching rate, resist profile, conformality, and metals content. Based on the test results outlined in this paper, the polymer blend BARC JM2218-56 is expected to advance towards commercialization.
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