Chemical Metal Deposition on Insulators by An Ion-Beam Process

Abstract

ABSTRACTAn ion-induced decomposition of thin metal-compound films on insulating surfaces is described. 100-keV ion beams of Ar+, Kr+, and Xe+ was used to decompose thin (~10 nm) films of a palladium compound on polyimide and alumina. Changes in the stoichiometry have been observed with Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry. The compound was also decomposed in a pattern using a mask, and the nondecomposed film could easily be removed with a suitable solvent. The decomposed palladium compound was used as a catalyst for a direct, electroless metal deposition of Cu. The plating speed was 30 nm/min, and a 4-5 µQcm copper film could be obtained after 3-4 min plating. Plated metal patterns are demonstrated on both polyimide and alumina, with a resolution in the µm range. On polyimide plating of a three-dimensional structure has been demonstrated.