Reactive sputtering method

Abstract

In a reactive sputtering apparatus, an inert-gas supplying hole is provided in a movable target unit whose one end is open and whose conductance is controlled, and a reactive gas containing at least fluorine or oxygen can be supplied to a space between the target and a substrate. The apparatus is constructed so as to emit the reactive gas toward the substrate. A reactive-gas emitting location is in the space between the target and the substrate such that a concentration of the reactive gas on the substrate surface can be maintained at a higher level. When the target is moved, a reactive-gas emitting port is moved or the reactive-gas emitting location is changed. The concentration of the reactive gas on the substrate surface can be effectively kept constant, and a high-quality optical thin film can be formed.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.