Chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) is a critical technology in the planarization of multilevel metallization systems and shallow-trench isolation in semiconductor manufacturing. Other emerging applications for this technology include flat-panel displays, magnetic data storage and microelectromechanical systems. The rapid emergence of copper as the conducting material for integrated circuits has further pushed CMP technology to the forefront of semiconductor manufacturing. However, a basic understanding of the CMP process, which is necessary to enable further advances, is inadequate. This book, first published in 2001, provides an insight into the fundamental processes in CMP. Presentations from academia, government institutions and industry are featured. Topics include: CMP mechanisms; dielectric and metal CMP; process integration and manufacturability; and CMP consumables.

The MRS Symposium Proceeding series is an internationally recognised reference suitable for researchers and practitioners.

This thesis addresses selected unsolved problems in the chemical mechanical polishing process (CMP) for integrated circuits using ruthenium (Ru) as a novel barrier layer material. Pursuing a systematic approach to resolve the remaining critical issues in the CMP, it first investigates the tribocorrosion properties and the material removal mechanisms of copper (Cu) and Ru in KIO4-based slurry. The thesis subsequently studies Cu/Ru galvanic corrosion from a new micro and in-situ perspective, and on this basis, seeks ways to mitigate corrosion using different slurry additives. The findings presented here constitute a significant advance in fundamental and technical investigations into the CMP, while also laying the groundwork for future research.

ULSI Process Integration 6 covers all aspects of process integration. Sections are devoted to 1) Device Technologies, 2) Front-end-of-line integration (gate stacks, shallow junctions, dry etching, etc.), 3) Back-end-of-line integration (CMP, low-k, Cu interconnect, air-gaps, 3D packaging, etc.), 4) Alternative channel technologies (Ge, III-V, hybrid integration), and 5) Emerging technologies (CNT, graphene, polymer electronics, nanotubes).

Advances in Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP), Second Edition provides the latest information on a mainstream process that is critical for high-volume, high-yield semiconductor manufacturing, and even more so as device dimensions continue to shrink. The second edition includes the recent advances of CMP and its emerging materials, methods, and applications, including coverage of post-CMP cleaning challenges and tribology of CMP. This important book offers a systematic review of fundamentals and advances in the area. Part one covers CMP of dielectric and metal films, with chapters focusing on the use of current and emerging techniques and processes and on CMP of various materials, including ultra low-k materials and high-mobility channel materials, and ending with a chapter reviewing the environmental impacts of CMP processes. New content addressed includes CMP challenges with tungsten, cobalt, and ruthenium as interconnect and barrier films, consumables for ultralow topography and CMP for memory devices. Part two addresses consumables and process control for improved CMP and includes chapters on CMP pads, diamond disc pad conditioning, the use of FTIR spectroscopy for characterization of surface processes and approaches for defection characterization, mitigation, and reduction. Advances in Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP), Second Edition is an invaluable resource and key reference for materials scientists and engineers in academia and R&D. - Reviews the most relevant techniques and processes for CMP of dielectric and metal films - Includes chapters devoted to CMP for current and emerging materials - Addresses consumables and process control for improved CMP, including post-CMP