Pyka W., Selberherr S.
Technical UniversityVienna, AT
Keywords: Bulge Formation, Metalization, Sputter Deposition, Titanium Nitride, Topography Simulation
During sputter deposition of metal layers bulges at sharp convex corners can arise and are observed after metalization of contact holes for semiconductor circuits. We present an explanation of this phenomenon by assuming that in process steps prior to the deposition a ledge is formed. This assumption together with the choice of an appropriate model for the distribution of the incident particles explains the evolution of the resulting film profile including the bulge at the topmost convex corner of the structure. The profile is simulated for several positions on the wafer. The variation of bulge shape and film thickness depending on the orientation of the sidewalls for the peripheral positions is reproduced. We investigate the geometry and particle flux conditions and show simulation results for diflferent geometries, contact hole diameters, aspect ratios and angles of incidence. Simulation results are compared with SEM pictures obtained from experiments.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: Technical Proceedings of the 1998 International Conference on Modeling and Simulation of Microsystems
Published: April 6, 1998
Pages: 65 - 69
Industry sector: Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topics: Informatics, Modeling & Simulation, Modeling & Simulation of Microsystems
ISBN: 0-96661-35-0-3