Abstract
In this work, we proposed Proper etching algorithm for ultra-large scale integrated circuit device and simulated etching process using the proposed algorithm in the case of ICP (inductive coupled plasma) 〔1〕source. Until now, many algorithms for etching process simulation have been proposed such as Cell remove algorithm, String algorithm and Ray algorithm. These algorithms have several drawbacks due to analytic function; these algorithms are not appropriate for sub 0.1 ${\mu}{\textrm}{m}$ device technologies which should deal with each ion. These algorithms could not present exactly straggle and interaction between Projectile ions and could not consider reflection effects due to interactions among next projectile ions, reflected ions and sputtering ions, simultaneously In order to apply ULSI process simulation, algorithm considering above mentioned interactions at the same time is needed. Proposed algorithm calculates interactions both in plasma source region and in target material region, and uses BCA (binary collision approximation4〕method when ion impact on target material surface. Proposed algorithm considers the interaction between source ions in sheath region (from Quartz region to substrate region). After the collision between target and ion, reflected ion collides next projectile ion or sputtered atoms. In ICP etching, because the main mechanism is sputtering, both SiO$_2$ and Si can be etched. Therefore, to obtain etching profiles, mask thickness and mask composition must be considered. Since we consider both SiO$_2$ etching and Si etching, it is possible to predict the thickness of SiO$_2$ for etching of ULSI.
