A scalable submicron contact technology using conformal LPCVD TiN

A scalable submicron contact technology has been developed using a fully conformal LPCVD (low-pressure chemical vapor deposition) titanium nitride barrier metal that provides low contact resistance to salicide, low leakage, excellent adhesion, and high thermal stability. Owing to the uniform step coverage, especially in deep, straight wall contacts, the CVD TiN overcomes the metal reliability and junction leakage issues associated with the physical sputtering of metals in high-aspect-ratio, submicron contacts. LPCVD TiN withstands 550 degrees C thermal stress, maintaining low contact resistance and leakage, while physically deposited TiN fails at 500 degrees C. The applicability of CVD TiN barrier technology to VLSI devices has been successfully demonstrated on production circuits.<
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