Extending gate dielectric scaling limit by use of nitride or oxynitride

Abstract

Theoretical calculations indicate that the tunneling currents in silicon nitride or oxynitride are greatly reduced compared to those in SiO/sub 2/ for equivalent oxide thicknesses (EOT) below 4 nm. Experimental results obtained on Jet Vapor Deposited (JVD) nitrides/oxynitrides are shown to verify the theoretical trend. These results suggest that extending the scaling limit well below 4 nm of EOT is possible with the JVD nitride.