Method of surface profile correction using gas cluster ion beam
US9875947B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 29, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jan 23, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 25, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01L22/12
- WIPO fieldSemiconductors
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method for correcting a surface profile on a substrate is described. In particular, the method includes receiving a substrate having a heterogeneous layer composed of a first material and a second material, wherein the heterogeneous layer has an initial upper surface exposing the first material and the second material, and defining a first surface profile across the substrate. The method further includes setting a target surface profile for the heterogeneous layer, selectively removing at least a portion of the first material using a gas cluster ion beam (GCIB) etching process, and recessing the first material beneath the second material, and thereafter, selectively removing at least a portion of the second material to achieve a final upper surface exposing the first material and the second material, and defining a second surface profile, wherein the second surface profile is within a pre-determined tolerance of the target surface profile.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.