Integration of SiCN as a low κ etch stop and Cu passivation in a high performance Cu/low κ interconnect

Abstract

This paper describes the integration of a silicon carbon nitride (SiCN) copper passivation and etch stop layer into a Cu low k dielectric interconnect technology. The incorporation of SiCN improves interconnect performance by virtue of its lower dielectric constant as compared to silicon nitride, and through changes to the process integration made possible by the improved etch selectivity and good copper interface properties.