U.S. patent application number 10/244713 was filed with the patent office on 2003-01-23 for rapid heating and cooling of workpiece chucks.
Invention is credited to Wang, Albert.
Application Number | 20030015294 10/244713 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22474151 |
Filed Date | 2003-01-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030015294 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wang, Albert |
January 23, 2003 |
Rapid heating and cooling of workpiece chucks
Abstract
A workpiece support or chuck that rapidly heats and cools a
semiconductor workpiece is disclosed. A heat source and a cooling
source, maintained at different temperatures, alternately
communicate with the chuck. In one embodiment, the heat source and
cooling source alternately provide relatively "hot" and "cold" heat
transfer fluids to fluid channels within the workpiece chuck.
Accordingly, a semiconductor workpiece in contact with the chuck
rapidly heats to the temperature of the hot fluid, or rapidly cools
to the temperature of the cold fluid, depending upon which fluid
flowing through the chuck. In another embodiment, the heat source
comprises a movable resistive heating block at a first temperature
that is placed in contact with the chuck during heating, and is
removed from the chuck while colder heat transfer fluid circulates
within the chuck. Optionally, inert fluid can be provided to purge
heat transfer fluid from the chuck channels between heating and
cooling steps.
Inventors: |
Wang, Albert; (Moraga,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KNOBBE MARTENS OLSON & BEAR LLP
2040 MAIN STREET
FOURTEENTH FLOOR
IRVINE
CA
92614
US
|
Family ID: |
22474151 |
Appl. No.: |
10/244713 |
Filed: |
September 16, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10244713 |
Sep 16, 2002 |
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09579943 |
May 26, 2000 |
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6461801 |
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60136738 |
May 27, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
156/345.52 ;
118/725; 118/728; 156/345.53 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01L 21/68714 20130101;
H01L 21/67109 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
156/345.52 ;
156/345.53; 118/728; 118/725 |
International
Class: |
C23F 001/00; C23C
016/00 |
Claims
I claim:
1. An apparatus for controlling the temperature of workpieces in a
semiconductor processing reactor, comprising: a support having
fluid channels therein; a cold fluid source communicating with the
fluid channels via a first supply line, the cold fluid source
configured to maintain a cold fluid maintained at a first
temperature; a heat source maintained at a second temperature, the
second temperature being higher than the first temperature; and a
mechanism for conductively transferring heat from the heat source
to the support.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the heat source comprises a
hot fluid source configured to maintain a hot fluid at the second
temperature, and the mechanism comprises a second supply line in
fluid communication with the hot fluid source and channels in the
support.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first supply line and the
second supply line are in fluid communication with the same fluid
channels in the support.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a three-way
switching valve controlling flow from the cold fluid source and the
hot fluid source to the fluid channels.
5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first supply line and the
second supply line overlap in a common supply line section
downstream of the three-way switching valve.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a purge line
connected to the common supply line section for purging heat
transfer fluid from the fluid channels.
7. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a first return line
in fluid communication with a downstream end of the fluid channels
and with the cold fluid source, and a second return line in fluid
communication with the downstream end of the fluid channels and
with the hot fluid source.
8. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a three-way
switching valve controlling flow from the fluid channels to the
cold fluid source and the hot fluid source.
9. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the hot fluid and the cold
fluid have the same chemical composition.
10. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the fluid channels occupy at
least 50% of a volume of the support.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a purge line
connected to the fluid channels for purging heat transfer fluid
therefrom.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the heat source comprises a
heater block, and the mechanism comprises a mechanical lift placing
the heater block in conductive contact with the support.
13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the heat source is
resistively heated.
14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the heat source is heated by
circulation of hot fluid therethrough.
15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first temperature is
selected to maintain a workpiece supported upon the support at less
than about 150.degree. C., and the second temperature is selected
to maintain the workpiece at between about 150.degree. C. and
300.degree. C.
16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the semiconductor processing
reactor comprises a photoresist asher.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/579,943, of Wang, filed May 26, 2000, which
claims the priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) from
provisional application No. 60/136,738, of Wang, filed May 27,
1999.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to temperature
control of workpiece supports for semiconductor processing
equipment, and more particularly to rapid heating and cooling of
such chucks for resist stripping chambers.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In many semiconductor processing steps, such as etching,
deposition, annealing, etc., a workpiece (e.g., a silicon wafer,
glass substrate, etc.) is supported within a processing chamber.
Gaseous and/or plasma reactants are supplied to the surface of the
workpiece while the workpiece is heated to specific
temperatures.
[0004] Typically, higher temperatures aid in achieving higher
reaction rates, and therefore higher workpiece throughput. On the
other hand, high temperatures can sometimes cause damage to
structures on partially fabricated integrated circuits.
Additionally, certain chemical reactions are most efficiently
performed at lower temperatures.
[0005] Many structures and methods are known in the art for
controlling workpiece temperature within the chamber. For example,
radiant heat may be supplied to the workpiece through transparent
"cold walls" formed of quartz. Radiant heat is particularly used
for very high temperature processing (e.g., at greater than
500.degree. C.), where it is desirable to raise and lower
temperature during the process cycle for each workpiece.
[0006] In other arrangements, the temperature of the workpiece
support, particularly gravitational, electrostatic or vacuum wafer
chucks, can be regulated by resistive heating. Conventionally,
"chucks" refer to supports for processing workpieces that are kept
at constant temperature as workpieces transferred in, processed and
transferred out in cycles. Some systems, particularly plasma
processing systems, require cooling rather than heating in order to
maintain the desired chuck temperature constant.
[0007] Regardless of the particular method used to heat the
workpiece, workpieces must often be cooled down after processing is
completed. For example, a processed workpiece is advantageously
allowed to cool to less than about 70.degree. C. prior to placement
in a low cost storage cassette that would otherwise melt. Since
processing time within the chamber is at a premium, such cooling is
most typically performed outside of the chamber on a separate
station, such that another workpiece can be introduced to the
process chamber while the first workpiece is cooling. Workpiece
temperature ramping is thereby minimized, as the massive chuck is
maintained at a substantially constant temperature while multiple
workpieces are sequentially processed.
[0008] While a number of heating and cooling systems are known in
the art, many of these systems are generally overly complex, too
slow, susceptible to particulate generation within the chamber,
etc. Accordingly, a need exists for an improved method and
apparatus for controlling the temperature of workpiece
supports.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In satisfaction of this need, a chuck for supporting a
workpiece within a semiconductor processing chamber. The chuck is
provided with temperature control mechanisms that permit rapid
heating or cooling of the chuck during processing.
[0010] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, an apparatus
is provided for controlling the temperature of workpieces in a
semiconductor processing reactor. The apparatus includes a support
with fluid channels. A cold fluid source communicates with the
fluid channels via a first supply line, and is configured to
maintain a cold fluid maintained at a first temperature. A heat
source is maintained at a second temperature, which is higher than
the first temperature. A mechanism is provided for conductively
transferring heat from the heat source to the support.
[0011] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a method
is provided for controlling a workpiece chuck temperature in a
process chamber. A first heat transfer fluid circulates through the
chuck during a cold phase to bring the chuck to a first
temperature. The first heat transfer fluid is removed from the
chuck during a hot phase. Also in the hot phase, the chuck is
heated to a second temperature higher than the first
temperature.
[0012] In one embodiment, both a high temperature fluid source and
a low temperature fluid source are connected to the fluid channels.
By switching between circulation of the high temperature fluid and
low temperature fluid, the wafer chuck and thus the workpiece on
it, can be rapidly heated or cooled between two different
temperatures. In another embodiment, a relatively low temperature
fluid is supplied to the fluid channels in the wafer chuck during
at least a portion of each cycle. When high temperatures are
desired, a heater block is in close contact with the chuck. When
low temperatures are desired, the heater block is physically moved
from contact with the chuck and lower temperature heat transfer
fluid flows through the chuck.
[0013] Advantageously, the dual temperature chucks of the preferred
embodiments can be used in a photoresist-stripping reactor. In one
process, cool fluid is utilized to rapidly reduce workpiece
temperature before removing the workpiece from the chuck. In
another embodiment, low temperature fluid is kept at a temperature
appropriate for a cleaning process, while a high temperature fluid
supply or a heater block is kept at a high temperature suitable for
photoresist stripping. Similarly, other multiple-step processes,
particularly including photoresist stripping, can be conducted at
different temperatures rapidly and efficiently using the same wafer
chuck.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] These and other aspects of the invention will be readily
apparent from the description below and from the appended drawings,
in which:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a dual temperature workpiece
chuck having a cold fluid source and a hot fluid source,
constructed in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the
present invention; and
[0016] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a dual temperature workpiece
chuck having a cold fluid source and a movable heater block,
constructed in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0017] While the invention is described in the context of microwave
downstream plasma systems, the skilled artisan will readily find
application for the principles disclosed herein in a variety of
contexts. The processes and structures disclosed herein have
particular utility where workpiece chucks desirably support rapid
cooling and heating features. For example, it is advantageous for
resist stripping reactors to undergo two-step processes at
different temperatures.
[0018] Preferred Dual Temperature Chucks.
[0019] Referring first to FIG. 1, a workpiece support apparatus or
wafer chuck 50 is provided with fluid flow channels 15. It will be
understood that the channels can be connected in series to define a
single flow path winding through the chuck. Preferably, to speed up
the temperature response of the wafer chuck 10, its thermal
capacity is preferably minimized. Accordingly, the fluid channels
15 preferably occupy at least about 50% of the wafer chuck volume,
more preferably at least about 70%.
[0020] The skilled artisan will readily appreciate that the fluid
channels 15 can be provided in the wafer chuck 10 in a variety of
manners. The fluid channels 15 can be machined into a metal block
from which the chuck 10 is formed, or the channels 15 can be formed
in a molding process. In other arrangements, the chuck 10 can be
formed of two pieces, with machined surface channels (not shown) in
one piece covered by the other piece. For example, surface channels
can be formed in a lower piece, with mating surface channels in the
upper piece.
[0021] The chuck 10 can have any suitable construction, and in the
illustrated embodiment provides an electrostatic attractive force
for holding a workpiece (not shown) in place. In other
arrangements, the chuck 10 can include vacuum channels for holding
the workpiece to the chuck 10. In still other arrangements, a
workpiece is held solely by gravitational forces on a susceptor or
other support means. The body of the chuck 10 is desirably formed
of a thermally conductive material, and in the illustrated
embodiment is formed of aluminum alloy.
[0022] A reactor (not shown) of the preferred embodiment includes
mechanisms for maintaining the chuck 10 at two different
temperatures at different stages or phases of a process cycle.
Desirably, the mechanisms of the reactor are configured to rapidly
exchange heat with the chuck 10, effectively raising or lowering
its temperature. Advantageously, the chuck/workpiece combination
rapidly reaches and maintains a desirable high or low
temperature.
[0023] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, a high temperature
mechanism or heat source comprises a hot fluid source 20 that is
connected to the fluid channels 15 within the wafer chuck 10 by way
of a supply line 22 and a return line 24. A switch to bring the
heat source into thermal communication with the chuck 10 includes
switching valves 26 and 28 along each of the supply 22 and return
lines 24, desirably centrally controlled to switch between the hot
fluid source 20 and a cold fluid source 40 that will be discussed
in more detail below. While not illustrated, it will be understood
that the system includes pumping means for circulating fluid
through the wafer chuck 10.
[0024] Optionally, purge source 30 is connected to the supply line
22 between the hot fluid source and the wafer chuck 10. Desirably,
a purge line 32 supplies a non-reactive or inert gas from the purge
source 30 to the supply line 22 by way of a two-way valve or purge
valve 35, which is advantageously also centrally controlled. The
illustrated purge gas is nitrogen (N.sub.2). Other suitable purge
gases include argon (Ar), helium (He), hydrogen (H.sub.2), and
other gases which are non-reactive with the heat transfer fluid and
with the material of the wafer chuck 10. It will be understood that
a liquid can also be used for purging, though that is less
preferred.
[0025] The hot fluid source 20 desirably holds a heat transfer
fluid, the composition of which may vary with the application. The
boiling point of the heat transfer fluid is preferably greater than
about 200.degree. C., more preferably greater than about
250.degree. C. Preferred examples include a fluid commercially
available under the trade name Paratherm NF.TM. from Paratherm
Corporation of Conshohocken, Pennsylvania. Another suitable thermal
transfer fluid comprises Dowtherm.TM., commercially available from
the Dow Chemical Company of Midland, Mich. These fluids operate
efficiently for heat transfer at temperatures up to about
400.degree. C. On the other hand, Galden-HT270 from the Kurt J.
Lesker Company of Clairton, PN, is preferably used for
electrostatic chucks due to its superior dielectric properties. It
can be operated at temperatures of up to about 270.degree. C.
[0026] As is further illustrated in the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 1, a cold source comprises a cold fluid source 40 that is also
connected to the fluid channels 15 within the wafer chuck 10 via a
supply line 42 and a return lines 44. It should be generally
understood that the term "cold" refers only to the temperature of
the cold fluid source 40 relative to the temperature of the hot
fluid source 20. For example, in preferred embodiments disclosed
below, the actual "cold" fluid source 40 is heated to a temperature
above room temperature.
[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, the cold fluid source 40 is
connected to the same fluid channels 15 in the wafer chuck 10 as
the hot fluid source 20, thus maximizing the thermal mass of either
the hot or cold heat transfer fluid, depending upon the point in
the cycle, that can be flowed through the chuck 10. As with the hot
fluid source 20, the cold fluid source 40 includes switchable
valves 26, 28 on each of the return line 44 and the supply line 42.
In the illustrated embodiment, the valves comprise the same
three-way switching valves 26, 28 that also connect to the supply
and return lines 22, 24 of the hot fluid source 20. Thus, the
supply and return lines 22, 24, 42, 44 for the hot and cold fluid
sources 20, 40 include common sections (common supply line section
50 and common return line section 52) between the three-way
switching valves 26, 28 and the wafer chuck 10. Thus, as used
herein, the supply lines 22, 42 each include the common supply line
section 50 and the return lines 24, 44 each include the common
return line section 52.
[0028] Advantageously, the heat transfer fluid within the cold
fluid source 40 comprises the same type of fluid held in the hot
fluid source 20, thus avoiding problems of cross-contamination and
reaction between the fluids. Preferably, the cold fluid is
maintained at temperatures less than about 150.degree. C., and for
certain embodiments more preferably less than 100.degree. C. or
less than 50.degree. C., depending upon the purpose of the cold
fluid source 40. For example, where the cold fluid source 40 serves
to cool the workpiece prior to transferring the wafer to a
cassette, the cold fluid is preferably kept at a temperature range
less than about 100.degree. C., and more preferably less than about
70.degree. C. On the other hand, where the cold fluid source 40
serves to maintain the workpiece temperature during one or more
relatively low temperature steps during a multi-step process, the
cold fluid is preferably maintained at or slightly above the
desirable workpiece temperature.
[0029] Fluid temperature in each of the hot fluid source 20 and the
cold fluid source 40 can be maintained at their respective
desirable temperatures by any of a variety of suitable heating or
cooling means, as will be readily understood by one of ordinary
skill in the art. In the illustrated embodiments, both the hot and
cold fluid sources 20, 40 are heated above room temperature.
However, where the cold fluid source 40 serves only to lower
workpiece temperature prior to transfer to a storage cassette, the
cold fluid can be maintained below room temperature. The skilled
artisan can readily determine, for a particular wafer chuck 10
configuration, the appropriate temperature at which to keep the
heat transfer fluid in order for the workpiece to be kept at the
desired temperature. Factors affecting a temperature differential
between the cold or hot fluid source 40 or 20 and the workpiece
temperature include heat losses (or gains) along the return lines
24, 44 and supply lines 22, 42, as well as other losses to the
environment within the reactor.
[0030] In operation, during a high temperature processing step (or
"hot phase"), fluid from the hot fluid source 20 is preferably
circulated through the hot supply line 22, the first or supply-end
three-way switching valve 26, the common supply line section 50,
the fluid channels 15, the common return line section 52, the
second or return-end three-way switching valve 28, the hot return
line 24 and back to the hot fluid source 20. When the high
temperature processing is completed, the switch is activated to
bring the heat source in thermal communication with the chuck.
Namely, the supply-end three-way switching valve 26 along the hot
supply line 22 is closed, and the purge valve 35 to the purge line
30 is opened. Purge gas, such as nitrogen gas (N.sub.2) in the
illustrated embodiment, then flows under pressure through the fluid
channels 15 in the wafer chuck 10, thereby blowing residual hot
fluid out through the hot return line 24 back into the hot fluid
source 20. Alternatively, the return-end three-way switching valve
28 at the juncture of the return lines 24, 44 can be switched to
allow purged heat transfer fluid to the cold fluid source 40. In
the latter arrangement, the volume of fluid in the cold fluid
source 40 is preferably large enough that the purged hot fluid has
little effect on the overall temperature of the cold fluid source
40.
[0031] Once the wafer chuck 10 has been purged of hot fluid, the
purge valve 35 is switched off and the supply-end switching valve
26 at the juncture of the supply lines 22, 42 is switched to allow
flow from the cold fluid source 40 through the wafer chuck 10. At
the same time, the switching valve between the return lines 40a and
40b is switched to allow flow of cold fluid back to the cold fluid
source 20 from the wafer chuck 50. After the cold phase is complete
(e.g., the workpiece has cooled sufficiently to allow storage in a
low temperature storage cassette, or a low temperature process is
completed), the supply-end three-way switching valve 26 is again
switched to an off position, while the purge valve 35 is opened to
once again purge fluid from the wafer chuck 10. As with purging
after a high temperature cycle, the cold fluid can be purged to the
hot fluid source 20, but is preferably purged to its originating
cold fluid source 40. The cycle is then repeated by switching the
valves 26, 28 again to allow flow from the hot fluid source 20.
[0032] In other arrangements, the purge line 30 can be eliminated
from the system of FIG. 1, particularly if the hot fluid source 20
and the cold fluid source 40 comprise the same heat transfer fluid.
In such an arrangement, hot heat transfer fluid can be purged with
cold heat transfer fluid, without the intermediate gas purge step.
As noted, the mass of the hot fluid source 20 is desirably high
enough that mixing of purged cold fluid has negligible effect on
the temperature of the stored hot fluid. Similarly, the mass of the
cold fluid source 40 is desirably high enough that mixing of purged
hot fluid with the cold fluid source 40 has negligible effect on
the temperature of the stored cold fluid. Preferably, the volume of
fluid in each of the hot fluid source 20 and the cold fluid source
40 is greater than about five (5) times the volume of the purged
fluid (representing a volume of fluid within the supply lines 22,
42 and return lines 24, 44 and within the fluid channels 15 in the
wafer chuck 10). More preferably, the fluid sources 20, 40 are each
greater than about ten (10) times and most preferably greater than
about twenty (20) times the volume of purged fluid.
[0033] Referring now to FIG. 2, the workpiece support of the second
embodiment also comprises a wafer chuck 10a including fluid
channels 15a. In the figures, parts that correspond to parts of the
previous embodiment are referenced by like numerals with the
addition of a suffix "a". As in the previously described
embodiment, a cold fluid source 40a, storing thermal transfer fluid
at a relatively low temperature, circulates cold heat transfer
fluid through the fluid channels 15a in the wafer chuck 10a via a
supply line 42a and a return line 44a. The cold fluid source 40a
can be as described with respect to the previous embodiment. The
second embodiment also includes a purge line 32a in communication
with the supply line 42a via an on/off purge valve 35a.
[0034] In place of the hot fluid source 20 (FIG. 1) of the previous
embodiment, however, the heat source of the second embodiment is a
movable electrically heated chuck or heater block 20a, as
illustrated in FIG. 2. Preferably, the heater block 20a is movable
relative to the wafer chuck 10a, although it will be understood
that, in some arrangements, the wafer chuck 10a can be made movable
while the heater block 20a remains stationary. A switch for
selectively bringing the heat source into thermal communication
with the chuck thus comprises an actuator (not shown) that
activates the motor for moving the heater block 20a. It will be
understood, of course, that the chuck could be moved while the
heater block is stationary.
[0035] The heater block 20a is preferably maintained during
processing at a hot or process temperature that is equal to or
slightly above the desired workpiece temperature for a high
temperature integrated circuit fabrication process, much in the way
that the heat transfer fluid within the hot fluid source 20 of FIG.
1 is constantly maintained at the desired high temperature. The
heater block 20a can be maintained at a desired high temperature by
any of a variety of suitable means. For example, the heater block
20a can be heated by fluid convection, where heat transfer fluid
heated in a hot fluid source is circulated through the heater block
20a, much in the way that the wafer chuck 10 is directly heated by
fluid convection in the embodiment of FIG. 1. In the illustrated
embodiment, the heater block 20a is maintained at a high
temperature by electrical or resistive heating. In still other
arrangements, the heater block 20a can be radiantly heated,
inductively heated, etc.
[0036] Advantageously, the heater block 20a has a high thermal mass
relative to the supporting portion of the wafer chuck 10a.
Preferably, the thermal mass of the heater block 20a is greater
than that of the wafer chuck 10a, more preferably greater than
about 5 times and most preferably greater than about 10 times the
thermal mass of the wafer chuck 10a.
[0037] In operation, when a wafer or other workpiece supported upon
the chuck 10a is ready for high temperature processing, the heater
block 20a is positioned for conductive heat transfer between the
heater block 20a and the chuck 10a. Preferably, the heater block
20a directly contacts the chuck 10a, more preferably flush across
major surfaces of the heater block 20a and the backside of the
chuck 10a.
[0038] When it is desired to cool the wafer to a cold or lower
temperature, the heater block 20a is removed from the thermally
conductive position. In the illustrated embodiment, the heater
block 20a is lowered from the chuck 10a, preferably by a distance
of at least about 0.25 inch, and more preferably by a distance of
about 0.5 inch. At the same time, or slightly after removal of the
heater block 20a, the valves 26a, 28a on the supply and return
lines 42a, 44a to the cold fluid source 40a are opened, and cold
fluid is circulated through the lines and the wafer chuck 10a. The
chuck 10a is thereby quickly cooled to approximately the
temperature of the cold fluid source 40a. It will also be
understood that the lower the thermal mass of the chuck 10a,
particularly in relation to the heater block 20a, the quicker the
chuck temperature can be changed.
[0039] In some arrangements, a lower temperature process phase is
conducted on the workpiece seated on the chuck 10a. In other
arrangements, the cooled workpiece can be removed from the chuck
10a at this stage and placed in a low-cost storage cassette without
waiting for further cooling, and without the need for separate
workpiece cooling mechanisms (such as cooling stations utilized in
many semiconductor processing systems).
[0040] When it is desirable to once again heat the wafer chuck 10a,
the valve 26a on the supply line 42a from the cold fluid source 40a
is closed, and the valve 35a on the purge line 32a is opened to
allow gas flow through the fluid channels 15a in the wafer chuck
10a. Residual cold fluid is thereby purged from the channels 15a in
wafer chuck 10a through the return line 44a and back to the cold
fluid source 40a. At the same time, or slightly after shutting the
cold fluid flow, the heater block 20a is moved relative to the
chuck 10a to bring the heater block 20a again in a position where
heat is conductively exchanged from the heater block 20a to the
wafer chuck 10a.
[0041] Preferred Processes Employing the Illustrated Dual
Temperature Chucks
[0042] Preferably, the illustrated dual temperature wafer chucks
10, 10a are employed within a microwave plasma asher for stripping
organic photoresist from integrated circuit workpieces. In addition
to a remote microwave plasma source, which produces oxygen and/or
fluorine radicals upstream of the process chamber, the reactor can
also employ an internal radio frequency (RF) plasma generator
within the process chamber. In the latter case, the wafer chuck 10,
10a is powered, as well as a portion of the chamber walls,
producing a parallel plate arrangement suitable for reactive ion
etching within the chamber.
[0043] As previously noted, the dual temperature wafer chucks 10,
10a of the preferred embodiments are particularly useful for
photoresist stripping and/or cleaning operations within a microwave
plasma ashing reactor, also known as a chemical downstream etch
(CDE) reactor. Photoresist is applied and removed from a workpiece
at various stages of semiconductor fabrication. As set forth in
more detail below, the illustrated dual temperature wafer chucks
10, 10a have utility in many resist strip contexts.
[0044] Post-Implant Resist Strip
[0045] During initial stages of semiconductor fabrication, regions
of a semiconductor substrate are implanted with dopants (e.g.
boron, phosphorous, arsenic) through a photoresist mask. Ion
implantation is similarly performed through masks in many other
doping steps. The ion implantation process results in a hardened
crust at the top surface of the photoresist. Outgassing during high
temperature steps tends to be trapped by the hardened crust until
an explosive pressure is built within the photoresist, potentially
causing damage to both the partially fabricated wafer as well as
the reactor. Traditionally, utilizing a low temperature strip
process to avoid excess gas build-up has minimized this risk.
[0046] In a preferred process employing the dual temperature wafer
chucks 10, 10a of the illustrated embodiments, an initial strip is
first conducted at low temperature until the trapping crust is
removed from the photoresist. Wafer temperatures during the initial
step are preferably kept between about 100.degree. C. and
140.degree. C., more preferably between about 110.degree. C. and
125.degree. C. Reaction gases can include an oxidant to aid
oxidation of the resist (e.g., O.sub.2, preferably converted to
oxygen radicals); a fluorine source to aid removal of the implanted
portion (e.g., NF.sub.3 or CF.sub.4, preferably converted to
fluorine radicals); and a diluting gas (such as He or Ar) and/or
forming gas (H.sub.2/N.sub.2) to serve as a carrier. Reactants can
be supplied to the workpiece surface in any suitable fashion.
Radicals are preferably generated in a remote microwave plasma
generator. The implanted upper portion of the resist is typically
removed in about thirty (30) seconds.
[0047] During this low temperature step, cold fluid is preferably
circulated through the wafer chuck 10, 10a, and the cold fluid is
desirably stored in the cold fluid source 40, 4a at the desired
wafer temperatures (i.e., between about 100.degree. C. and
140.degree. C., more preferably between about 110.degree. C. and
125.degree. C.). Accordingly, the "cold" fluid is actually heated
to the desired temperature.
[0048] Once the crust has been removed, reaction continues while
the temperature of the chuck 10, 10a is raised. With the embodiment
of FIG. 1, for example, the cold fluid is purged from the wafer
chuck 10, preferably with a purge gas for about five (5) seconds,
and the hot fluid is circulated through the wafer chuck 10.
Utilizing the chuck 10a of FIG. 2, switching temperatures involves
stopping the cold fluid flow through the heater chuck 10a, purging
the cold fluid from the chuck 10a, and raising the heater block 20a
to conductive contact with the wafer chuck 10a.
[0049] Preferably, the temperature is raised to between about
150.degree. C. and 300.degree. C. and more preferably between about
200.degree. C. and 250.degree. C. The same reactant chemistry can
continue to flow during the second stage of the strip. Preferably,
however, N.sub.2 (or forming gas) flows with O.sub.2 and fluorine
flow can be optionally discontinued. The raised temperature results
in a significantly increased etch rate, thereby improving workpiece
throughput. In particular, a temperature of about 250.degree. C.
results in a strip rate of about 7 .mu.m/min. A typical photoresist
mask of about 1 .mu.m can therefore be removed within about 5 to 10
seconds.
[0050] Post-Via Resist Strip
[0051] At various stages during semiconductor fabrication, vias are
created through layers, typically through insulating layers such as
borophosphosilicate glass (BPSG) or oxides formed from
tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS). A photoresist mask is selectively
exposed and developed in a desired pattern and the developed or
undeveloped resist is removed, depending upon whether positive or
negative resist is employed. Vias are then formed through the
patterned photoresist mask and through the exposed portions of the
underlying layer, typically an oxide.
[0052] After via formation, the photoresist mask must be removed.
Unfortunately, the process of forming the via creates an organic
residue within the via, which is often difficult to remove. The
residue is often referred to in the industry as a polymer "veil,"
and is particularly problematic following reactive ion etching of
vias for back-end or metallization stages of fabrication. While
relatively vigorous cleaning chemistries must be employed to remove
this polymer residue, overetching risks damage to the exposed
features within the via. Accordingly, it is advantageous to conduct
the post-via formation cleaning, after rapid resist stripping, at
relatively low temperatures.
[0053] With the wafer chuck 10, 10a at an elevated temperature
(e.g., 200.degree. C. to 250.degree. C.), a high temperature resist
strip can be conducted at rapid rates, as disclosed above with
respect to the second stage of the post-implant process. Reactants
can also be as discussed above, with optional fluorine flow. During
this high temperature step, hot fluid can circulate through the
wafer chuck 10 (FIG. 1) or a heater block 20a can be positioned for
conductive thermal exchange with the wafer chuck 10a (FIG. 2).
[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, wherein the wafer chuck 10,
10a can be quickly adjusted between two temperatures, the post-via
cleaning can be conducted within the same process chamber as the
resist strip. Accordingly, a low temperature cleaning process is
conducted immediately following the resist strip process. Thus, for
reactors employing the apparatus of FIG. 1, hot fluid circulation
is discontinued and purged from the fluid channels 15, and
subsequently replaced with cold heat transfer fluid. If the
apparatus of FIG. 2 is employed, the heater block 20a is removed
from the wafer chuck 10a and cold fluid begins to circulate through
the wafer chuck 10a.
[0055] During the post-strip clean process, the workpiece
temperature is preferably kept between about room temperature and
100.degree. C., more preferably between about 50.degree. C. and
80.degree. C. The chemistry during this process preferably includes
an oxidant (e.g., O.sub.2), a diluting gas (e.g., He, Ar, and/or
forming gas--N.sub.2/H.sub.2), and a fluorine source gas (e.g.,
NF.sub.3 or CF.sub.4). The fluorine, while aiding removal of the
polymer, also attacks the oxide sidewalls of the via. Preferably,
the oxidant and fluorine reactants comprise radicals formed
upstream of the reaction chamber.
[0056] The process preferably includes RF plasma generation within
the chamber, compensating for reduced temperatures during the
process. N.sub.2 or forming gas aid maintenance of the plasma
discharge. Additionally, an optional physical sputter etch can be
briefly applied immediately after treatment with the oxygen and
fluorine sources.
[0057] During the post-via clean, "cold" fluid is thus circulated
through the wafer chuck 10, 10a, where the cold fluid source is
kept within the desired workpiece temperature range. Upon
completion of the via cleaning step, the workpiece is removed from
the chamber, cold fluid circulation is discontinued and the cold
fluid is purged from the fluid channels 15, 15a. In the embodiment
of FIG. 1, the cold fluid is replaced with hot heat transfer fluid,
while in the embodiment of FIG. 2, the heater block 20a is
positioned for thermally conductive exchange with the wafer chuck
10a. The chuck 10 or 10a is thus prepared for processing another
wafer.
[0058] Reduction of Oxide Loss
[0059] As discussed above with respect to the post-via stripping,
residues in vias formed by RIE during back-end metallization are
cleaned after the photoresist stripping. More generally, however,
contact openings or holes are formed at many stages of integrated
circuit fabrication, whether by wet etch, dry vapor etch or
RIE.
[0060] Integrated circuits include many dielectric elements for
electrical isolation of conductive elements. A common material for
such dielectric elements is silicon oxide in various forms,
although silicon nitride is also popular for many applications.
[0061] In forming electrical contacts among conductive elements,
the contact holes or openings are formed through insulating layers
known as interlevel dielectrics (ILDs). Opening contact holes to
active areas within semiconductor substrates often expose
insulative sidewall spacers over transistor gate electrodes. Such
contact etches typically also expose sacrificial oxide over the
substrate. In each of these examples, masks are employed to define
the hole or via, and an etch process exposes oxide surfaces.
[0062] Such oxide surfaces define dimensions selected by a circuit
design. As device packing density continues to increase in pursuit
of faster integrated circuit (IC) operating speeds and lower power
consumption, it becomes ever more critical to maintain these
dimensions, and tolerance for overetch is commensurately reduced.
Cleaning the openings after removal of the photoresist mask,
therefore, needs to be carefully controlled to avoid overetch of
the exposed insulating surfaces, particularly oxide surfaces.
[0063] Accordingly, a first stage of post-contact etch resist
stripping is conducted at high temperatures (preferably between
about 100.degree. C. and 300.degree. C., more preferably between
about 200.degree. C. and 250.degree. C.), with the wafer supported
upon a dual temperature wafer chuck 10 or 10a (FIGS. 1, 2). An
exemplary reactant flow includes 1:10 ratios of
N.sub.2:O.sub.2.
[0064] After the strip, the illustrated dual temperature wafer
chucks 10, 10a can be employed to perform a lower temperature
post-strip clean. As noted with respect to the post-via cleaning,
fluorine aids in cleaning oxide surfaces of lithography
by-products. Desirably, a relative small percentage of fluorine gas
source (e.g., less than about 5% CF.sub.4) is added to the
flow.
[0065] Advantageously, employment of an RF plasma, in addition to
the remote plasma generator, lowers the required process
temperature for a given etch rate. Accordingly, the cold fluid
source 40, 40a is preferably maintained between about 15.degree. C.
and 100.degree. C., more preferably between about 20.degree. C. and
100.degree. C., and most preferably between about 25.degree. C. and
50.degree. C. Despite rapid etch rates, the post-strip clean can be
strictly controlled by limiting the time for which the RF
electrodes are powered (e.g., for about 15 seconds).
[0066] Post-Process Cooling
[0067] In addition to the two stage processes discussed above, the
disclosed dual temperature wafer chucks 10 or 10a (FIG. 1, 2) can
advantageously increase workpiece throughput for any desired
process, including single-temperature processes which are conducted
at high temperatures.
[0068] For such processes, a rapid resist strip process (preferably
between about 100.degree. C. and 300.degree. C., more preferably
between about 200.degree. C. and 250.degree. C.) can be followed by
lowering the wafer temperature, while still mounted upon the chuck
10, 10a, to levels tolerable by commercial storage cassettes.
Preferably, the wafer temperature is lowered to less than about
100.degree. C., and more preferably to less than about 70.degree.
C.
[0069] Since, for this step, no workpiece treatment is to be
conducted, the workpiece temperature need not be stabilized prior
to removal. Accordingly, the cold fluid source 40, 40a can be
maintained at well below the desired removal temperature. A high
temperature differential between the hot wafer chuck 10 or 10a
(after resist strip) and the cold fluid introduced to the fluid
channels 15, 15a results in very rapid cooling of the
workpiece/chuck combination. Accordingly, the cold fluid source 40,
40a is preferably maintained below about 100.degree. C., and more
preferably below about 70.degree. C. The workpiece can thus be
removed from the chuck 10, 10a and placed directly into a low
temperature storage cassette without any waiting beyond the time
required to open the chamber gate valve and extend the transfer
robot to lift the workpiece.
[0070] Accordingly, several objects and advantages inhere in the
described invention. For example, processes that require two-step
processing at different temperatures can be efficiently conducted
within the same process chamber. Also, the heat transfer fluid used
for both the hot and cold fluid sources can be the same, which
minimizes any cross-contamination and reaction between fluids.
Furthermore, workpiece throughput can be increased by eliminating a
separate cooling station conventionally used for cooling workpieces
prior to placement in low-cost storage cassette.
[0071] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
various modifications and changes may be made without departing
from the scope of the invention, and all such modifications and
changes are intended to fall within the scope of the invention, as
defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *