Interconnect processes
Which correctly describes the damascene process commonly used to form copper wiring?
- ACopper film is patterned directly by dry etching
- BTrenches are formed in the insulator, filled with copper, and the excess copper is removed by CMP
- CCopper is thermally oxidized to form the wiring shape
Show answer and explanation
Answer: B. Trenches are formed in the insulator, filled with copper, and the excess copper is removed by CMP
In the damascene process, trenches shaped like the wiring are first etched into the insulator, barrier and seed layers are deposited, and copper is filled by plating. Finally, CMP removes the excess copper from the surface, leaving wiring only in the trenches. Filling trenches and vias at once is called the dual damascene process.