Abstract
The etching behaviors of the ferroelectric $YMnO_3$ thin films were studied by an inductively coupled plasma (ICP). The maximum etch rate of $YMnO_3$ thin film is 300 ${\AA}/min$ at Ar/$Cl_2$of 2/8, RF power of 800W, dc bias voltage of 200V, chamber pressure of 15mTorr and substrate temperature of $30^{\circ}C$. Addition of $CF_4$ gas decrease the etch rate of $YMnO_3$ thin film. From the results of XPS analysis, nonvolatile $YF_x$ compounds were found on the surface of $YMnO_3$ thin film which is etched in Ar/$Cl_2$/CF$_4$plasma. The etch profile of YMnO$_3$film is improved by addition of $CF_4$ gas into the Ar/$Cl_2$ plasma. These results suggest that YF$_{x}$ compound acts as a sidewall passivants which reduce the sticking coefficient of chlorine on $YMnO_3$.
