Scatterfield Microscopy of 22 nm Node Patterned Defects using Visible and DUV Light

Published

April 4, 2012

Author(s)

Bryan M. Barnes, Martin Y. Sohn, Francois R. Goasmat, Hui Zhou, Richard M. Silver, Abraham Arceo

Abstract

Smaller patterning dimensions and novel architectures are fostering research into improved methods of defect detection in semiconductor device manufacturing. This initial experimental study, augmented with simulation, evaluates scatterfield microscopy to enhance defect detectability on two separate 22-nm node intentional defect array wafers. Reducing the illumination wavelength nominally delivers direct improvements to detectability. Precise control of the focus position is also critical for maximizing the defect signal. Engineering of the illumination linear polarization and incident angle are shown to optimize the detection of certain highly directional defects. Scanning electron microscopy verifies that sub-15 nm defects can be measured experimentally using 193 nm wavelength light. Techniques are discussed for taking advantage of the complexities inherent in the scattering of highly directional defects within unidirectional patterning. Although no one single set of parameters can be optimized to detect all defects equally, source optimization is shown to be a realistic path towards improved sensitivity.

Proceedings Title

Proceedings of the SPIE

Volume

8324

Conference Dates

February 12-16, 2012

Conference Location

San Jose, CA

Conference Title

SPIE Advanced Lithography

Pub Type

Conferences

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Local Download

Citation

Barnes, B. , Sohn, M. , Goasmat, F. , Zhou, H. , Silver, R. and Arceo, A. (2012), Scatterfield Microscopy of 22 nm Node Patterned Defects using Visible and DUV Light, Proceedings of the SPIE, San Jose, CA, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=910963 (Accessed October 24, 2025)