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Evolution of photoresist layer structure and surface morphology under fluorocarbon‐based plasma exposure

Journal Article · · Plasma Processes and Polymers
 [1];  [2];  [3];  [1]
  1. Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute for Research in Electronics and Applied Physics University of Maryland College Park Maryland
  2. Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Maryland College Park Maryland
  3. Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Maryland College Park Maryland, Institute for Physical Science and Technology University of Maryland College Park Maryland, Center for Nanophysics and Advanced Materials University of Maryland College Park Maryland

Abstract

Ion bombardment of photoresist materials during plasma etching results in the formation of a surface dense amorphous carbon (DAC) layer that contributes to both etch resistance and the development of surface roughness. Real‐time ellipsometric measurements/analysis reveals that a C 4 F 8 ‐containing plasma interacts with an Ar‐plasma‐formed DAC layer to produce a modified DAC/fluorocarbon (FC) layer by FC deposition/diffusion of fluorine into the surface. The depletion of the DAC layer via modification and ion bombardment causes the etch rate of the bulk layer to increase. As the modified surface layer is formed, a noticeable decrease in surface roughness decrease is observed. These findings provide an understanding of the mechanisms of atomic layer etching processes in photoresist materials.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
Grant/Contract Number:
NONE; SC0001939
OSTI ID:
1504283
Journal Information:
Plasma Processes and Polymers, Journal Name: Plasma Processes and Polymers Journal Issue: 9 Vol. 16; ISSN 1612-8850
Publisher:
Wiley Blackwell (John Wiley & Sons)Copyright Statement
Country of Publication:
Germany
Language:
English

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