Magnetic layer for magnetic random access memory (MRAM) by moment enhancement
US10522752B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 2018 |
| Grant date | Dec 31, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 8, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH10N50/85
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A perpendicularly magnetized magnetic tunnel junction (p-MTJ) is disclosed wherein a boron containing free layer (FL) is subjected to a plasma treatment with inert gas, and a natural oxidation (NOX) process to form B2O3 before overlying layers are deposited. A metal layer such as Mg is deposited on the FL as a first step in forming a Hk enhancing layer that increases FL perpendicular magnetic anisotropy, or as a first step in forming a tunnel barrier layer on the FL. One or more anneal steps are essential in assisting B2O3 segregation from the free layer and thereby increasing the FL magnetic moment. A post-oxidation plasma treatment may also be used to partially remove B2O3 proximate to the FL top surface before the metal layer is deposited. Both plasma treatments use low power (<50. Watts) to remove a maximum of 2. Angstroms FL thickness.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.