Self-aligned multiple patterning processes using bi-layer mandrels and cuts formed with block masks
First Claim
1. A method comprising:
- forming an upper layer and a lower layer of a mandrel line over a first hardmask;
forming a non-mandrel cut block over a portion of a non-mandrel line;
after forming the non-mandrel cut block, removing the upper layer of the mandrel line;
forming a first etch mask over a first section of the lower layer of the mandrel line that is arranged laterally between adjacent second sections of the lower layer and that defines a mandrel cut block over a first portion of the first hardmask;
after forming the first etch mask, removing the second sections of the lower layer of the mandrel line to expose respective second portions of the first hardmask; and
removing the second portions of the first hardmask with a first etching process to form a trench in the first hardmask,wherein the first portion of the first hardmask is masked by the mandrel cut block during the first etching process.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Methods of self-aligned double patterning and improved interconnect structures formed by self-aligned double patterning. A mandrel line including an upper layer and a lower layer is formed over a hardmask. A non-mandrel cut block is formed over a portion of a non-mandrel line, after which the upper layer of the mandrel line is removed. An etch mask is formed over a first section of the lower layer of the mandrel line defining a mandrel cut block over a first portion of the hardmask. The first section of the lower layer is arranged between adjacent second sections of the lower layer. The second sections of the lower layer of the mandrel line are removed to expose respective second portions of the hardmask, and the second portions of the hardmask are removed to form a trench. The mandrel cut block masks the first portion of the hardmask during the etching process.
12 Citations
20 Claims
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1. A method comprising:
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forming an upper layer and a lower layer of a mandrel line over a first hardmask; forming a non-mandrel cut block over a portion of a non-mandrel line; after forming the non-mandrel cut block, removing the upper layer of the mandrel line; forming a first etch mask over a first section of the lower layer of the mandrel line that is arranged laterally between adjacent second sections of the lower layer and that defines a mandrel cut block over a first portion of the first hardmask; after forming the first etch mask, removing the second sections of the lower layer of the mandrel line to expose respective second portions of the first hardmask; and removing the second portions of the first hardmask with a first etching process to form a trench in the first hardmask, wherein the first portion of the first hardmask is masked by the mandrel cut block during the first etching process. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
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16. A structure comprising:
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a first metallization line, the first metallization line having a first outer sidewall, a second outer sidewall, a first section, a second section, and a cut in the first metallization line disposed between the first section and the second section; and a second metallization line adjacent to the first metallization line, the second metallization line having a third outer sidewall adjacent to and parallel to the first outer sidewall, wherein the cut spans a first distance between a first end of the first section and a second end of the second section, the first outer sidewall and the third outer sidewall are separated by a second distance, and the first distance is greater than two times the second distance. - View Dependent Claims (17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification