Characterization of LPCVD of Silicon Nitride in a Rapid Thermal Processor

Abstract

ABSTRACTLow pressure chemical vapor deposition of silicon nitride has been studied using a cold-walled, lamp heated, rapid thermal processor. Films were deposited at low presure using both silane and dichlorosilane, diluted in hydrogen and argon carrier gasses. The dichlorosilane and ammonia reaction was found to be unsuitable for use in the cold-walled system. Rapid thermal chemical vapor depositions using silane and ammonia did not result in “bullseye” non-uniformities reported for low presure depositions in conventional hot-walled tube furnaces. Ammonia to silane ratios of 120:1 were found to result in stoichiometric silicon nitride films. Deposition rates are well suited for dielectricapplications. Electrical characteristics are comparable to those of films deposited using APCVD and LPCVD methods.