Cost-effective "BARC/resist-via-fill free" integration technology for 0.13 /spl mu/m Cu/low-k

Demonstrates the first successful integration scheme free of BARC/resist via-fill that not only significantly simplifies the overall process complexity, but also reduces cost and process instabilities by employing an OSG (k=2.9)/ HDP-FSG dual ILD structure in conjunction with our proprietary plasma induced polymeric etch stopper (PIPS) in a 7-metal level 0. 13 /spl mu/m design node. The via poisoning problem and low selectivity of etch stopper were overcome by optimizing ILD structure and PIPS etch process. The electrical characteristics and reliability results indicate that the current integration scheme is highly manufacturable.