Review of methods for the mitigation of plasma‐induced damage to low‐dielectric‐constant interlayer dielectrics used for semiconductor logic device interconnects

The developments in advanced interconnect technology for semiconductor logic devices for the mitigation of plasma‐induced damage to low‐dielectric‐constant (low‐k) materials, including fluorosilicate glass and carbon‐doped silicon oxide is reviewed. The chemical bond structures of low‐k materials are summarized to help mitigate the k value degradation caused by moisture uptake after plasma processes. Damage suppression is accomplished by integrating deposition chemistries, pattern etch transfer, and post‐etch cleaning technologies. On the basis of analyses results, a discussion on the bond engineering of low‐k materials and their degradation during plasma processing is given. Challenges facing low‐k interconnect technology are also addressed.