Utilization of block-mask and cut-mask for forming metal routing in an IC device
US9324722B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 13, 2015 |
| Grant date | Apr 26, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 13, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01L21/76816
- WIPO fieldSemiconductors
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method of forming metal routing in an IC device utilizing a cut mask in conjunction with a block mask is disclosed. Embodiments include forming a hard-mask layer on an upper surface of a silicon-oxide layer; forming spaced parallel mandrels on an upper surface of the hard-mask; forming spacers on opposite sides of each mandrel, removing the mandrels, forming alternating mandrel and non-mandrel spaces; forming block-mask portions over the mandrel and non-mandrel spaces; removing exposed sections of the hard-mask exposing sections of the silicon-oxide, removing the block-mask portions; forming a cut-mask with openings shorter than the block-mask portions over the upper surface of the hard-mask where the block-mask portions had been; removing the hard-mask through the cut-mask openings, removing the cut-mask; forming cavities in exposed regions of the silicon-oxide; removing the spacers and any remaining hard-mask; and forming metal lines in the cavities.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.