Silicon nitride single-layer x-ray mask

Abstract

In LP-CVD process, preparation of silicon nitride film with small tensile stress and low refractive index was investigated as a function of deposition temperature and reactant gas ratio (SiH2Cl2/NH3). The small stress film with low refractive index can be prepared easily by high temperature deposition. Applying the film to an x-ray mask membrane, a new silicon nitride single-layer x-ray mask with a large area window (such as 50 mm in diameter) and high transparency to visible light is realized. Using this mask, a submicron resist pattern (0.5 μm line and space) can be replicated easily by Si–K x-ray exposure system.