Methods for selective integration of airgaps and devices made by such methods
US7078352B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 30, 2004 |
| Grant date | Jul 18, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 30, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01L2924/0002
- WIPO fieldSemiconductors
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method for the production of airgaps in a semiconductor device and device produced therefrom. The formation of airgaps is accomplished, in part, by chemically and/or mechanically changing the properties of a first dielectric layer locally, such that at least part of said first dielectric layer is converted locally and becomes etchable by a first etching substance. The local conversion of the dielectric material may be achieved during anisotropic etching of the material in oxygen containing plasma or ex-situ by performing an oxidizing step (e.g., a UV/ozone treatment or supercritical carbon dioxide with addition of an oxidizer). Formation of airgaps is achieved after creation of conductive lines and, alternatively, a barrier layer by a first etching substance. The airgaps are formed in a dual damascene structure, near the vias and/or the trenches of the damascene structure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.