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AssigneeTokyo Electron Limited
InventorsAndrew W. Metz, Anton J. deVilliers
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Techniques herein provide methods for self-aligned etching that use existing features for patterning or registering a pattern, without damaging existing features. Existing substrate structures are used to create a surface that enables directed self-assembly (DSA) of block copolymers (BCP) without a separate lithographic patterning layer. Methods herein include recessing at least one existing material or structure on a substrate, and adding a film that remains on the recessed material only. This film can be selected to have a preferential surface energy that enables controlled self-assembly of block copolymers. The substrate can then be etched using both existing structures and one polymer material as an etching mask. One example advantage is that self-assembled polymer material can be located to protect exposed corners of existing features, which reduces a burden of selective etch chemistry, increases precision of subsequent etching, and reduces sputter yield.
A method for self-aligned patterning, the method comprising:
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.