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Phase sensitive parametric optical metrology: Exploring the limits of 3-dimensional optical metrology

Published

Author(s)

Richard M. Silver, Jing Qin, Bryan M. Barnes, Hui Zhou, Ronald G. Dixson, Francois R. Goasmat

Abstract

There has been much recent work in developing advanced optical metrology applications that use imaging optics for critical dimension measurements, defect detection and for potential use with in-die metrology applications. Sensitivity to nanometer scale changes has been observed when measuring critical dimensions of sub-wavelength features or when imaging defects below 20 nm using angle-resolved and focus-resolved optical data. However, these methods inherently involve complex imaging optics and analysis of complicated three-dimensional electromagnetic fields. This paper will develop a new approach to enable the rigorous analysis of three-dimensional through-focus optical images. We use rigorous electromagnetic simulation tools and statistical methods to evaluate sensitivities and uncertainties in the measurement of three dimensional layouts encountered in critical dimension, contour metrology and defect inspection.
Proceedings Title
Proceedings of the SPIE
Volume
8324
Conference Dates
February 12-16, 2012
Conference Location
San Jose, CA
Conference Title
Metrology, Inspection, and Process Control for Microlithography

Keywords

optical metrology, electromagnetic simulation, evaluate sensitivities and uncertainties, phase sensitive measurements, through-focus three-dimensional field

Citation

Silver, R. , Qin, J. , Barnes, B. , Zhou, H. , Dixson, R. and Goasmat, F. (2012), Phase sensitive parametric optical metrology: Exploring the limits of 3-dimensional optical metrology, Proceedings of the SPIE, San Jose, CA, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=911039 (Accessed March 28, 2024)
Created April 4, 2012, Updated February 19, 2017