Chip inner moat structure and manufacturing method thereof
By setting groove rings in the periphery of the chip and filling the conformal layer and polymer layer, the problem of complex and high cost of chip protection ring structure in the prior art is solved, and effective chip protection and production efficiency improvement is achieved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN201811229808.1
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2018-10-22
- Publication Date
- 2025-02-07
- Estimated Expiration
- 2038-10-22
AI Technical Summary
In the prior art, the chip protection ring structure is made in complex processes and has high costs, making it difficult to provide a new protective structure and its manufacturing method to reduce process complexity and cost while ensuring good chip protection effect.
Adopt a moat structure in the chip and its manufacturing method. By setting a groove ring in the surrounding area of the chip, and filling the groove ring with a conformal layer and a filling layer, the filling layer can be made of a polymer layer, and the polymer layer is made of a flexible material, which can Absorbs wafer cutting stress, blocks stress transmission, and prevents cracks in the chip.
It effectively reduces the process complexity and cost of the chip protection ring structure, while improving the protection effect of the chip, preventing cracks in the chip, and improving product reliability and production efficiency.
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Figure CN111081647B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The invention belongs to the field of semiconductor integrated circuits and relates to a moat structure within a chip and a manufacturing method thereof. Background Art
[0002] In the semiconductor manufacturing process, a wafer with integrated circuits is usually cut into individual chips, and then these chips are made into semiconductor packaging structures with different functions. Figure 1 As shown, it is a partial top view of a wafer, which contains multiple chips 101, and two adjacent chips are separated by a scribe line 102. Each chip includes a device structure, an interconnection structure, and a pad formed on a substrate through processes such as deposition, photolithography, etching, doping, and heat treatment. Afterwards, the wafer is cut into multiple independent chips along the scribe line.
[0003] When the wafer is cut, mechanical stress is applied to the wafer, so cracks are easily caused in the cut chips. In the prior art, in order to prevent the semiconductor chip from being damaged by the cutting process, a guard ring 103 is formed between the device area of each chip and the cutting path to surround the chip.
[0004] like Figure 2 As shown, it is shown as Figure 1 From the A-A' cross-sectional view, it can be seen that the protection ring in the prior art includes contact plug 104, first metal ring 105, first plug 106, second metal ring 107, second plug 108, third metal ring 109 and passivation protection layer 110 from bottom to top, wherein the contact plug and the first metal ring are surrounded by dielectric layer 111, the first plug, the second metal ring, the second plug and the third metal ring are surrounded by dielectric layer 112, there is a SiCN diffusion barrier layer 113 between dielectric layer 111 and dielectric layer 112, the passivation protection layer includes oxide layer 1101, silicon nitride layer 1102 and polyimide layer 1103 from bottom to top, the contact plug and the first plug can be made of W, the first metal ring can be made of Cu, the second metal ring, the second plug and the third metal ring can be made of aluminum. In order to strengthen the connection between the metal and the dielectric, there is also an adhesive layer 114 between each contact plug, plug and the second and third metal rings and the dielectric layer.
[0005] Since the existing chip protection ring structure contains multiple metal layers, the manufacturing process is relatively complicated and the cost is relatively high. Therefore, how to provide a new protection structure and its manufacturing method to reduce the process complexity and cost while providing good chip protection effect has become an important technical problem that needs to be urgently solved by technical personnel in this field. Summary of the invention
[0006] In view of the above-mentioned shortcomings of the prior art, an object of the present invention is to provide a chip inner moat structure and a manufacturing method thereof, so as to solve the problem of complex manufacturing process and high cost of the chip protection ring structure in the prior art.
[0007] To achieve the above-mentioned and other related purposes, the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip, comprising the following steps:
[0008] A substrate is provided, wherein a diffusion barrier layer is provided on the surface of the substrate, and a chip main body area and a chip peripheral area surrounding the chip main body area are defined on the substrate, and a moat ring structure is embedded in the substrate, located in the chip peripheral area and covered under the diffusion barrier layer;
[0009] Forming a dielectric layer on the diffusion barrier layer, and forming a metal interconnect structure and a bonding pad in the dielectric layer, wherein the conductive metal layer of the metal interconnect structure and the bonding pad are located in the chip main body region;
[0010] forming a passivation protection layer on the dielectric layer;
[0011] forming a moat groove structure in the chip peripheral area, the moat groove structure is aligned with the moat ring structure and includes at least two separately arranged groove rings, wherein the groove rings extend downward into the dielectric layer but do not penetrate the diffusion barrier layer;
[0012] A surface protection layer is formed on the passivation protection layer, wherein the surface protection layer includes a conformal layer and a filling layer in order from bottom to top, wherein the conformal layer is also formed on the side wall and the bottom of the groove ring, and the filling layer is also filled into the groove ring.
[0013] Optionally, the material of the filling layer includes polymer, and the material of the conformal layer includes carbon.
[0014] Optionally, the passivation protection layer includes an oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer from bottom to top. When the moat groove structure is formed in the peripheral area of the chip, an opening is simultaneously formed in the chip main body area and penetrates the oxide layer and the silicon nitride layer to expose the bonding pad.
[0015] Optionally, a portion of the filling layer located in the groove ring has an air gap.
[0016] Optionally, the material of the passivation protection layer includes oxide, the material of the conformal layer includes silicon nitride, and the material of the filling layer includes oxide.
[0017] Optionally, the moat ring structure includes at least two discretely arranged first metal rings and a plurality of first conductive plugs, the diffusion barrier layer covers the first metal rings, the conductive plugs are connected under the metal rings, and the groove ring is longitudinally aligned with the first metal rings.
[0018] Optionally, the dielectric layer comprises an upper diffusion barrier layer, and the upper diffusion barrier layer is located above one of the conductive metal layers of the metal interconnect structure to prevent diffusion of the conductive metal layer below. The metal interconnect structure further includes at least two discretely arranged second metal rings aligned on the moat ring structure and a plurality of second metal plugs in the dielectric layer in the chip peripheral area, the second metal ring is located below the upper diffusion barrier layer, and the second metal plug is connected below the second metal ring.
[0019] Optionally, a bottom surface of the slot ring is located opposite to a top surface of the diffusion barrier layer and includes a non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer.
[0020] Optionally, the slot ring penetrates the dielectric layer, and a bottom surface of the slot ring includes an exposed surface of the diffusion barrier layer.
[0021] Optionally, the width of the groove ring is in the range of 1 to 3 μm, the height of the groove ring is in the range of 2 to 10 μm, and the spacing between adjacent groove rings is in the range of 4 to 90 μm.
[0022] Optionally, the metal interconnect structure comprises at least two conductive metal layers on the diffusion barrier layer, two adjacent conductive metal layers are connected via conductive pillars, and a bottom conductive pillar is connected below the bottom conductive metal layer.
[0023] Optionally, a bottom conductive metal layer and a plurality of bottom conductive plugs which are located on the same layer structure as the moat ring structure are formed in the substrate in the chip main body area, the bottom conductive plugs are connected below the bottom conductive metal layer, and the metal interconnection structure passes through the diffusion barrier layer and is connected above the bottom conductive metal layer.
[0024] The present invention also provides a chip inner moat structure, comprising:
[0025] A substrate, on which a chip main body area and a chip peripheral area surrounding the chip main body area are defined;
[0026] A diffusion barrier layer is located on the surface of the substrate, and a moat ring structure is buried in the substrate and located in the peripheral area of the chip and covered under the diffusion barrier layer;
[0027] A dielectric layer, located on the surface of the diffusion barrier layer;
[0028] A metal interconnect structure and a bonding pad are located in the dielectric layer, and the conductive metal layer of the metal interconnect structure and the bonding pad are located in the chip body area;
[0029] A passivation protection layer, located on the surface of the dielectric layer;
[0030] a moat groove structure formed in the chip peripheral area and aligned with the moat ring structure, the moat groove structure comprising at least two discretely disposed groove rings, the groove rings extending downward into the dielectric layer but not penetrating the diffusion barrier layer;
[0031] The surface protection layer is located on the passivation protection layer. The surface protection layer includes a conformal layer and a filling layer from bottom to top. The conformal layer is also formed on the side wall and the bottom of the groove ring, and the filling layer is also filled into the groove ring.
[0032] Optionally, the material of the filling layer includes polymer, and the material of the conformal layer includes carbon.
[0033] Optionally, the passivation protection layer includes an oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer in sequence from bottom to top.
[0034] Optionally, the moat structure within the chip further has an opening formed in the chip main body area and penetrating the oxide layer and the silicon nitride layer to expose the bonding pad.
[0035] Optionally, a portion of the filling layer located in the groove ring has an air gap.
[0036] Optionally, the material of the passivation protection layer includes oxide, the material of the conformal layer includes silicon nitride, the material of the filling layer includes oxide, and the moat structure within the chip further includes a polymer layer located on the filling layer, and the material of the polymer layer includes polyimide.
[0037] Optionally, the moat ring structure includes at least two discretely arranged first metal rings and a plurality of first conductive plugs, the diffusion barrier layer covers the first metal rings, the conductive plugs are connected under the metal rings, and the groove ring is longitudinally aligned with the first metal rings.
[0038] Optionally, the dielectric layer comprises an upper diffusion barrier layer, and the upper diffusion barrier layer is located above one of the conductive metal layers of the metal interconnect structure to prevent diffusion of the conductive metal layer below. The metal interconnect structure further includes at least two discretely arranged second metal rings aligned on the moat ring structure and a plurality of second metal plugs in the dielectric layer in the chip peripheral area, the second metal ring is located below the upper diffusion barrier layer, and the second metal plug is connected below the second metal ring.
[0039] Optionally, a bottom surface of the slot ring is located opposite to a top surface of the diffusion barrier layer and includes a non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer.
[0040] Optionally, the slot ring penetrates the dielectric layer, and a bottom surface of the slot ring includes an exposed surface of the diffusion barrier layer.
[0041] As described above, the chip moat structure and the manufacturing method thereof of the present invention have the following beneficial effects: the chip moat structure and the manufacturing method thereof of the present invention arrange a groove ring in the chip peripheral area, the groove ring surrounds the chip main body area, and the groove ring has a conformal layer and a filling layer, the filling layer can be a polymer layer, the polymer layer is a flexible material, can effectively absorb the wafer cutting stress, thereby blocking the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main body area, and preventing the generation of cracks in the chip. The filling layer can also have an air gap, and the air gap is used to buffer the mechanical stress during the wafer cutting process, thereby blocking the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main body area, which can effectively prevent the generation of cracks in the chip. Since the non-metallic conformal layer and filling layer are used in the groove ring instead of the conventional multi-layer metal filling, the use of metal materials can be reduced, which can not only reduce the process complexity and improve the yield, but also help to reduce production costs. At the same time, the conformal layer and the filling layer filled in the groove ring can also increase the stability of the structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0042] Figure 1 Shown is a partial top view of a wafer in the prior art.
[0043] Figure 2 Display as Figure 1 A-A' cross-sectional view.
[0044] Figure 3 Shown is a partial top view of the wafer in the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] Figure 4 Display as Figure 3 B-B' cross-sectional view.
[0046] Figure 5-Figure 15 It is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure presented in each step of the manufacturing method of the moat structure in the chip of the present invention in the first embodiment.
[0047] Fig.16 It is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the moat structure within a chip of the present invention in the second embodiment.
[0048] Fig.17 It is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the moat structure within a chip of the present invention in the third embodiment.
[0049] Fig.18It is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the moat structure within a chip of the present invention in the fourth embodiment.
[0050] Fig.19 It is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the moat structure within a chip of the present invention in the fifth embodiment.
[0051] Fig. 20 It is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the moat structure within the chip of the present invention in the sixth embodiment.
[0052] Fig.21 Shown is a partial top view of the wafer in the seventh embodiment of the present invention.
[0053] Fig. 22 Display as Figure 3 B-B' cross-sectional view.
[0054] Figure 23-Figure 34 It is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure presented in each step of the manufacturing method of the moat structure in the chip of the present invention in the first embodiment.
[0055] Fig.35 It is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the moat structure within a chip of the present invention in the eighth embodiment.
[0056] Fig.36 It is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the moat structure within a chip of the present invention in the ninth embodiment.
[0057] Fig.37 It is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the moat structure within a chip of the present invention in the tenth embodiment.
[0058] Fig.38 It is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the moat structure within a chip of the present invention in the eleventh embodiment.
[0059] Fig.39 It is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the moat structure within a chip of the present invention in the twelfth embodiment.
[0060] Component number description
[0061] 101 Chip
[0062] 102 Cutting Road
[0063] 103 protection ring
[0064] 104 contact pin
[0065] 105 First Metal Ring
[0066] 106 First Plug
[0067] 107 Second Metal Ring
[0068] 108 Second Plug
[0069] 109 Third Metal Ring
[0070] 110 Passivation protective layer
[0071] 1101 Oxide layer
[0072] 1102 Silicon nitride layer
[0073] 1103 Polyimide layer
[0074] 111,112 Dielectric layer
[0075] 113 SiCN diffusion barrier layer
[0076] 114 Adhesive layer
[0077] 200 cutting lanes
[0078] I Chip body area
[0079] II Chip surrounding area
[0080] 201 substrate
[0081] 202 bottom conductive metal layer
[0082] 203 Bottom conductive plug
[0083] 204 Adhesive layer
[0084] 205 First Metal Ring
[0085] 206 first conductive plug
[0086] 207 Adhesive layer
[0087] 208 Diffusion Barrier
[0088] 209 Dielectric layer
[0089] 209a first dielectric layer
[0090] 209b Second dielectric layer
[0091] 210 Metal Interconnect Structure
[0092] 210a, 210b conductive metal layer
[0093] 210c Conductive column
[0094] 210c' conductive column through hole
[0095] 210d Bottom conductive column
[0096] 211 Bonding pad
[0097] 212 Passivation protective layer
[0098] 212a Oxide layer
[0099] 212b Silicon nitride layer
[0100] 213 Filling layer
[0101] 214 Groove Ring
[0102] 215 Opening
[0103] 216 Upper diffusion barrier
[0104] 217 Second Metal Ring
[0105] 218 Second metal plug
[0106] 219 Photoresist layer
[0107] 219a First photoresist layer opening
[0108] 219b Second photoresist layer opening
[0109] 220 Conformal layer
[0110] W Width of groove ring
[0111] H Groove ring height
[0112] D groove ring spacing
[0113] 300 cutting lanes
[0114] 301 substrate
[0115] 302 bottom conductive metal layer
[0116] 303 Bottom conductive plug
[0117] 304 Adhesive layer
[0118] 305 First Metal Ring
[0119] 306 first conductive plug
[0120] 307 Adhesive layer
[0121] 308 Diffusion Barrier
[0122] 309 Dielectric layer
[0123] 309a First dielectric layer
[0124] 309b Second dielectric layer
[0125] 310 Metal Interconnect Structure
[0126] 310a, 310b conductive metal layer
[0127] 310c Conductive Column
[0128] 310c' conductive column through hole
[0129] 310d bottom conductive column
[0130] 311 Bonding Pad
[0131] 312 Passivation protective layer
[0132] 313 Filling layer
[0133] 314 Groove Ring
[0134] 315 Opening
[0135] 316 Upper diffusion barrier
[0136] 317 Second Metal Ring
[0137] 318 Second metal plug
[0138] 319 Photoresist layer
[0139] 319' Photoresist layer opening
[0140] 320 Conformal layer
[0141] 321 Air Gap
[0142] 322 polymer layer DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0143] The following describes the embodiments of the present invention through specific examples, and those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the contents disclosed in this specification. The present invention can also be implemented or applied through other different specific embodiments, and the details in this specification can also be modified or changed in various ways based on different viewpoints and applications without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
[0144] See also Figures 3 to 20 It should be noted that the illustrations provided in this embodiment are only used to illustrate the basic concept of the present invention in a schematic manner, and the drawings only show components related to the present invention rather than being drawn according to the number, shape and size of components in actual implementation. In actual implementation, the type, quantity and proportion of each component may be changed arbitrarily, and the component layout may also be more complicated.
[0145] Embodiment 1
[0146] In this embodiment, the moat structure in the chip is manufactured on a wafer. Figure 3 , which is a partial top view of the wafer, wherein a plurality of intra-chip moat structures are arranged in the wafer, and adjacent intra-chip moat structures are separated by cutting paths 200 .
[0147] like Figure 3 As shown, the chip inner moat structure is defined as a chip main body area I and a chip peripheral area II surrounding the chip main body area I. The chip peripheral area II is provided with a moat groove structure, and the moat groove structure includes at least two discretely arranged groove rings 214. The groove rings 214 surround the chip main body area I to block the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main body area I. In this embodiment, the groove ring 214 is a rectangular ring ( Figure 3 Only two sides of the rectangular ring are shown), and the number of the groove rings 214 is 3. However, in other embodiments, the shape of the groove ring 214 can also be adjusted according to the actual outline of the chip and the device layout, and the number of the groove rings 214 can also be adjusted as needed, for example, 2 to 10, and the scope of protection of the present invention should not be excessively limited here.
[0148] See also Figure 4 , displayed as Figure 3From the BB' cross-sectional view, it can be seen that in addition to the moat groove structure, the moat structure in the chip further includes a substrate 201, a diffusion barrier layer 208, a dielectric layer 209, a metal interconnect structure 210, a bonding pad 211, a passivation protection layer 212, an opening 215 and a surface protection layer (composed of a conformal layer 220 and a filling layer 213), wherein the diffusion barrier layer 208 is located on the surface of the substrate 201, a moat ring structure is buried in the substrate 201, the moat ring structure is located in the chip peripheral area II and covered under the diffusion barrier layer 208, the moat ring structure includes at least two discretely arranged first metal rings 205 and a plurality of first conductive plugs 206, the interface between the first conductive plugs 206 and the substrate 201 has an adhesion layer 207, the diffusion barrier layer 208 covers the first metal ring 205, and the conductive plug 206 is connected to the bottom of the first metal ring 205. In this embodiment, the moat groove structure is aligned with the moat ring structure, and the groove ring 214 is longitudinally aligned with the first metal ring 205. The dielectric layer 209 is located on the surface of the diffusion barrier layer 208, the metal interconnect structure 210 and the bonding pad 211 are located in the dielectric layer 209, and the conductive metal layer of the metal interconnect structure 210 and the bonding pad 211 are located in the chip main body region I. In this embodiment, the bonding pad 211 is close to the edge of the chip main body region I for packaging testing. The passivation protection layer 212 is located on the surface of the dielectric layer 209, the groove ring 214 opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 212 and extends downward into the dielectric layer 209, but does not penetrate the diffusion barrier layer 208, the conformal layer 220 is coated on the sidewall and bottom surface of the groove ring 214 and the top surface of the passivation protection layer 212, and the filling layer 213 is coated on the surface of the conformal layer 220 and fills the remaining space of the groove ring. The opening 215 opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 212 and extends downward to the surface of the bonding pad 211 to expose the bonding pad 211. In this embodiment, the conformal layer 220 is coated on the sidewall and bottom surface of the opening 215 at the same time, and the filling layer 213 fills the remaining space of the opening 215.
[0149] Specifically, the width W of the groove ring is in the range of 1 to 3 μm, the height H of the groove ring is in the range of 2 to 10 μm, and the spacing D between adjacent groove rings is in the range of 4 to 90 μm. In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the groove ring 214 is located on the top surface of the diffusion barrier layer 208 and includes a non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 209 .
[0150] Specifically, the metal interconnect structure 210 includes at least two conductive metal layers. In this embodiment, the metal interconnect structure 210 includes two conductive metal layers 210a and 210b, and the two adjacent conductive metal layers are connected by a conductive column 210c, and the conductive column 210d is connected to the bottom of the conductive metal layer 210b. The materials of the conductive metal layers 210a, 210b and the conductive column 210c include but are not limited to tungsten, copper, aluminum, etc.
[0151] Specifically, the substrate in the chip main body region I further forms a bottom conductive metal layer 202 and a plurality of bottom conductive plugs 203 located in the same layer structure as the moat ring structure, the bottom conductive plugs 203 are connected below the bottom conductive metal layer 202, and the metal interconnect structure 210 penetrates the diffusion barrier layer 208 and is connected above the bottom conductive metal layer 202. The materials of the bottom conductive metal layer 202 and the bottom conductive plugs 203 include, but are not limited to, tungsten, copper, aluminum, etc.
[0152] Specifically, the passivation protection layer 212 includes an oxide layer 212a and a silicon nitride layer 212b from bottom to top. The material of the oxide layer 212a includes but is not limited to silicon dioxide, the material of the conformal layer 220 includes but is not limited to carbon, the material of the filling layer 213 includes but is not limited to polyimide, and the material of the diffusion barrier layer 208 includes but is not limited to silicon carbonitride.
[0153] As an example, manufacturing the moat structure in the chip includes the following steps:
[0154] See also Figure 5 and Figure 6 , performing step S201: providing a substrate 201, the surface of the substrate having a diffusion barrier layer 208, and the substrate defining a chip main body region I and a chip peripheral region II surrounding the chip main body region, the substrate being embedded with a moat ring structure, located in the chip peripheral region II and covered under the diffusion barrier layer 208. The moat ring structure comprises at least two first metal rings 205 and a plurality of first conductive plugs 206 disposed separately, the interface between the first conductive plugs 206 and the substrate 201 having an adhesive layer 207, the diffusion barrier layer 208 covering the first metal rings 205, and the conductive plugs 206 connected to the bottom of the first metal rings 205. In this embodiment, the moat groove structure is aligned with the moat ring structure, and the groove ring 214 is longitudinally aligned with the first metal ring 205. The substrate of the chip main body region I further comprises a bottom conductive metal layer 202 and a plurality of bottom conductive plugs 203 located in the same layer structure as the moat ring structure. The bottom conductive plugs 203 are connected below the bottom conductive metal layer 202 as an example. Figure 5 As shown, a plurality of bottom conductive plugs 203 and a plurality of first conductive plugs 206 are first formed in the substrate 201, wherein the bottom conductive plugs 203 are located in the substrate in the chip main body region I, and the first conductive plugs 206 are located in the substrate in the chip peripheral region II. Figure 6 As shown, a bottom conductive metal layer 202 is then formed on the bottom conductive plug 203 , a first metal ring 205 is formed on the first conductive plug 206 , and a diffusion barrier layer 208 is formed on the substrate.
[0155] Specifically, a conductive plug groove is first formed in the substrate by photolithography and etching processes, and then a conductive plug material (such as W) is deposited in the conductive plug groove, and excess conductive plug material outside the conductive plug groove is removed by chemical etching or chemical mechanical polishing. In order to enhance the bonding between the conductive plug 203 and the first conductive plug 206 and the substrate 201, and reduce the diffusion of the conductive plug material, an adhesive layer 204, 207 can be deposited on the bottom surface and sidewall of the conductive plug groove before depositing the conductive plug. The diffusion barrier layer 208 is used to prevent the diffusion of the bottom conductive metal layer 202 and the first metal ring 205. The material of the diffusion barrier layer 208 includes but is not limited to silicon carbonitride.
[0156] See also Figures 7 to 10 , execute step S202: form a dielectric layer 209 on the diffusion barrier layer, and form a metal interconnect structure 210 and a bonding pad 211 in the dielectric layer 209, the conductive metal layer of the metal interconnect structure 210 and the bonding pad 211 are located in the chip main body area I, and the bonding pad 211 is close to the edge of the chip main body area I.
[0157] Specifically, the metal interconnect structure 210 includes at least two conductive metal layers. In this embodiment, the metal interconnect structure 210 includes two conductive metal layers 210a and 210b, and the two adjacent conductive metal layers are connected by a conductive column 210c, and the conductive column 210d is connected to the bottom of the conductive metal layer 210b. The materials of the conductive metal layers 210a, 210b and the conductive column 210c include but are not limited to tungsten, copper, aluminum, etc.
[0158] As an example, Figure 7 As shown, a first dielectric layer 209a is first formed on the diffusion barrier layer 208, and a bottom conductive column 210d is formed in the first dielectric layer 209a of the chip main body region I. The material of the bottom conductive column 210d can be tungsten. Figure 7 The structure of the bottom conductive column 210d after chemical mechanical polishing is shown. Figure 8 As shown, a conductive metal layer 210b is then formed on the bottom conductive column 210d. Figure 8 The structure shown is that of the conductive metal layer 210b after being etched and patterned. Fig. 9 As shown, a second dielectric layer 209b is then formed on the first dielectric layer 209a, and a conductive column through hole 210c' is formed in the second dielectric layer 209b. Fig.10 As shown, a conductive column 210c and a conductive metal layer 210a are formed in the second dielectric layer 209b. Fig.10 The structure shown is the structure of the conductive metal layer 210a after etching and patterning. The material of the first dielectric layer 209a can be selected from silicon dioxide or low-k dielectric. The material of the second dielectric layer 209b can be selected from silicon dioxide or low-k dielectric. Fig.11 , perform step 203 : forming a passivation protection layer 212 on the dielectric layer 209 .
[0159] Specifically, an oxide layer 212 a and a silicon nitride layer 212 b are sequentially deposited from bottom to top as the passivation protection layer 212 , and the material of the oxide layer 212 a can be silicon dioxide.
[0160] See also Fig.12 , perform step 204 : forming a photoresist layer 219 on the passivation protection layer 212 .
[0161] In this embodiment, the photoresist layer 219 is further patterned by photolithography processes such as exposure and development to obtain a first photoresist layer opening 219a and a second photoresist layer opening 219b, wherein the first photoresist layer opening 219a corresponds to the position of the bonding pad 211, and the second photoresist layer opening 219b is annular and located in the chip peripheral area II. The first photoresist layer opening 219a and the second photoresist layer opening 219b can be formed by photolithography etching or laser opening.
[0162] See also Fig.13 , execute step S205: use the patterned photoresist layer 219 as a mask to etch downward to form an opening 215 in the chip main body area I to expose the bonding pad 211, and simultaneously form a moat groove structure in the chip peripheral area II to block the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main body area I, the moat groove structure is aligned with the moat ring structure and includes at least two discretely arranged groove rings 214, wherein the groove ring 214 opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 212 and extends downward to the dielectric layer 209, but does not penetrate the diffusion barrier layer 208, and the opening 215 opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 212 and extends downward to the surface of the bonding pad 211.
[0163] In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the groove ring 214 is relatively located on the top surface of the diffusion barrier layer 208 and includes a non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 209 a .
[0164] See also Fig.14 , executing step S206 : forming a conformal layer 220 on the sidewall and bottom surface of the groove ring 214 and the top surface of the passivation protection layer 212 .
[0165] In this embodiment, the material of the conformal layer 220 is preferably carbon. The reason is that when the conformal layer 220 is formed, the conformal layer 220 will also be deposited on the surface of the bonding pad. If a conventional conformal layer material is used, another etching process is required to etch the conformal layer to reopen the bonding pad. If a carbon material is used, due to the brittle property of the carbon material, it can be easily peeled off or scratched, so there is no need to use another etching process, which is beneficial to reduce production costs.
[0166] like Fig.15 As shown, step S207 is performed: forming a filling layer 213 on the surface of the conformal layer, and the filling layer 213 fills the remaining space of the groove ring 214. In this embodiment, the filling layer 213 also fills the remaining space of the opening 215.
[0167] Specifically, the material of the filling layer 213 includes but is not limited to flexible materials such as polyimide, which can effectively absorb the wafer cutting stress, thereby blocking the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main body area and preventing the generation of cracks in the chip.
[0168] It should be noted that in other embodiments, the metal interconnect structure 210 may also have more layers of metal, and its manufacturing process is not limited to the above process flow, for example, a single damascene process or a dual damascene process may be selected as needed, and the protection scope of the present invention should not be excessively limited here.
[0169] The chip inner moat structure and manufacturing method thereof of the present invention arranges a groove ring in the chip peripheral area, the groove ring surrounds the chip main body area, and the groove ring is filled with a polymer layer, the polymer layer is a flexible material, and can effectively absorb the wafer cutting stress, thereby blocking the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main body area, and preventing the generation of cracks in the chip. Since the polymer layer is used in the groove ring instead of the conventional multi-layer metal filling, the use of metal materials can be reduced, which can not only reduce the process complexity and improve the yield, but also help to reduce production costs. At the same time, the polymer layer filled in the groove ring can also increase the stability of the structure.
[0170] Embodiment 2
[0171] This embodiment and the first embodiment adopt a substantially same technical solution, except that in the first embodiment, the groove ring 214 opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 212 and extends downward into the dielectric layer 209, and the bottom surface of the groove ring 214 is located relatively on the top surface of the diffusion barrier layer 208 and includes a non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 209a. In this embodiment, the groove ring 214 penetrates the dielectric layer 209, and the bottom surface of the groove ring 214 includes an exposed surface of the diffusion barrier layer 208, as shown in FIG. Fig.16 shown.
[0172] Embodiment 3
[0173] This embodiment adopts the same technical solution as the first embodiment, except that in this embodiment, the dielectric layer 209 has an upper diffusion barrier layer 216, and the upper diffusion barrier layer 216 is located above one of the conductive metal layers to prevent the diffusion of the conductive metal layer. Fig.17 , which is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the moat structure in the chip in this embodiment, as an example, the upper diffusion barrier layer 216 is located above the conductive metal layer 210b, and the bottom surface of the groove ring 214 is located on the top surface of the upper diffusion barrier layer 216 and includes the non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 209b. The material of the upper diffusion barrier layer 216 includes but is not limited to silicon carbonitride.
[0174] This embodiment is applicable to the case where the conductive metal layer 210 b is made of Cu or other easily diffusible materials.
[0175] Embodiment 4
[0176] This embodiment and the third embodiment adopt the same technical solution, except that the groove ring 214 in the third embodiment opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 212 and extends downward into the dielectric layer 209, and the bottom surface of the groove ring 214 is located relatively on the top surface of the upper diffusion barrier layer 216 and includes the non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 209b. In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the groove ring 214 includes the exposed surface of the upper diffusion barrier layer 216, as shown in FIG. Fig.18 shown.
[0177] Embodiment 5
[0178] This embodiment and the third embodiment adopt a substantially same technical solution, except that the metal interconnect structure 210 in this embodiment further comprises at least two discretely arranged second metal rings 217 aligned on the moat structure and a plurality of second metal plugs 218 in the dielectric layer 209 in the chip peripheral region, the second metal ring 217 being located below the upper diffusion barrier layer 216, and the second metal plugs 218 being connected below the second metal ring 217, as shown in FIG. Fig.19 shown.
[0179] In this embodiment, the chip peripheral area II has both a groove ring 214 and a metal ring 217, taking into account the advantages of both and reducing the use of metal materials, which can not only reduce process complexity and improve yield, but also help reduce production costs.
[0180] Embodiment 6
[0181] This embodiment and the fifth embodiment adopt the same technical solution, except that the groove ring 214 in the fifth embodiment opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 212 and extends downward into the dielectric layer 209, and the bottom surface of the groove ring 214 is located relatively on the top surface of the upper diffusion barrier layer 216 and includes the non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 209b. In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the groove ring 214 includes the exposed surface of the upper diffusion barrier layer 216, such as Fig. 20 shown.
[0182] Embodiment 7
[0183] In this embodiment, the moat structure in the chip is manufactured on a wafer. Fig.21 , which is a partial top view of the wafer, wherein a plurality of intra-chip moat structures are arranged in the wafer, and adjacent intra-chip moat structures are separated by cutting paths 300 .
[0184] like Fig.21 As shown, the chip inner moat structure is defined as a chip main body area I and a chip peripheral area II surrounding the chip main body area I. The chip peripheral area II is provided with a moat groove structure, and the moat groove structure includes at least two discretely arranged groove rings 314. The groove rings 314 surround the chip main body area I to block the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main body area I. In this embodiment, the groove ring 314 is a rectangular ring ( Fig.21 Only two sides of the rectangular ring are shown), and the number of the groove rings 314 is 3. However, in other embodiments, the shape of the groove ring 314 can also be adjusted according to the actual contour of the chip and the device layout, and the number of the groove rings 314 can also be adjusted as needed, for example, 2 to 10, and the scope of protection of the present invention should not be excessively limited here.
[0185] See also Fig. 22 , displayed as Fig.21 From the BB' cross-sectional view, it can be seen that in addition to the moat groove structure, the moat structure in the chip further includes a substrate 301, a diffusion barrier layer 308, a dielectric layer 309, a metal interconnect structure 310, a bonding pad 311, a passivation protection layer 212, an opening 315, a surface protection layer (composed of a conformal layer 320 and a filling layer 313), an air gap 321 and a polymer layer 322, wherein the diffusion barrier layer 308 is located on the surface of the substrate 301, a moat ring structure is buried in the substrate 301, the moat ring structure is located in the chip peripheral area II and covered under the diffusion barrier layer 308, the moat ring structure includes at least two discretely arranged first metal rings 305 and a plurality of first conductive plugs 306, the interface between the first conductive plug 306 and the substrate 301 has an adhesion layer 307, the diffusion barrier layer 308 covers the first metal ring 305, and the conductive plug 306 is connected below the first metal ring 305. In this embodiment, the moat groove structure is aligned with the moat ring structure, and the groove ring 314 is longitudinally aligned with the first metal ring 305. The dielectric layer 309 is located on the surface of the diffusion barrier layer 308, the metal interconnect structure 310 and the bonding pad 311 are located in the dielectric layer 309, and the conductive metal layer of the metal interconnect structure 310 and the bonding pad 311 are located in the chip main body region I. In this embodiment, the bonding pad 311 is close to the edge of the chip main body region I for packaging testing. The passivation protection layer 312 is located on the surface of the dielectric layer 309. The groove ring 314 opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 312 and extends downward into the dielectric layer 309, but does not penetrate the diffusion barrier layer 308. The conformal layer 320 is coated on the sidewall and bottom surface of the groove ring 314 and the top surface of the passivation protection layer 312. The filling layer 313 is coated on the surface of the conformal layer 320 and fills into the remaining space of the groove ring 314 to close the opening of the groove ring 314. The portion of the filling layer 313 located in the groove ring 314 has an air gap 321. The polymer layer 322 is located on the filling layer. The opening 315 is formed in the chip body area to expose the bonding pad 311. In this embodiment, the opening 315 opens from the top surface of the polymer layer 322 and extends downward to the surface of the bonding pad 311 to expose the bonding pad 311.
[0186] Specifically, the width W of the groove ring is in the range of 1 to 3 μm, the height H of the groove ring is in the range of 2 to 10 μm, and the spacing D between adjacent groove rings is in the range of 4 to 90 μm. In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the groove ring 314 is located on the top surface of the diffusion barrier layer 308 and includes a non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 309 .
[0187] Specifically, the metal interconnect structure 310 includes at least two conductive metal layers. In this embodiment, the metal interconnect structure 310 includes two conductive metal layers 310a and 310b, and the two adjacent conductive metal layers are connected by a conductive column 310c, and the conductive column 310d of the bottom layer is connected below the conductive metal layer 310b of the bottom layer. The materials of the conductive metal layers 310a, 310b and the conductive column 310c include but are not limited to tungsten, copper, aluminum, etc.
[0188] Specifically, the substrate in the chip main body region I further forms a bottom conductive metal layer 302 and a plurality of bottom conductive plugs 303 located in the same layer structure as the moat ring structure, the bottom conductive plugs 303 are connected below the bottom conductive metal layer 302, and the metal interconnect structure 310 penetrates the diffusion barrier layer 308 and is connected above the bottom conductive metal layer 302. The materials of the bottom conductive metal layer 302 and the bottom conductive plugs 303 include, but are not limited to, tungsten, copper, aluminum, etc.
[0189] Specifically, the materials of the passivation protection layer 312 and the filling layer 313 include but are not limited to oxides, and the oxides may be silicon oxides. The materials of the conformal layer 320 include but are not limited to silicon nitride. The materials of the polymer layer 322 include but are not limited to polyimide, and the materials of the diffusion barrier layer 308 include but are not limited to silicon carbonitride.
[0190] As an example, manufacturing the moat structure in the chip includes the following steps:
[0191] See also Fig.23 and Fig.24, performing step S301: providing a substrate 301, the surface of the substrate having a diffusion barrier layer 308, and the substrate defining a chip main body region I and a chip peripheral region II surrounding the chip main body region, a moat ring structure embedded in the substrate, located in the chip peripheral region II and covered under the diffusion barrier layer 308. The moat ring structure comprises at least two first metal rings 305 and a plurality of first conductive plugs 306 disposed separately, the interface between the first conductive plugs 306 and the substrate 301 having an adhesive layer 307, the diffusion barrier layer 308 covering the first metal rings 305, and the conductive plugs 306 connected to the bottom of the first metal rings 305. In this embodiment, the moat groove structure is aligned with the moat ring structure, and the groove ring 314 is longitudinally aligned with the first metal ring 305. The substrate of the chip main body region I further comprises a bottom conductive metal layer 302 and a plurality of bottom conductive plugs 303 located in the same layer structure as the moat ring structure. The bottom conductive plugs 303 are connected below the bottom conductive metal layer 302 as an example. Fig.23 As shown, a plurality of bottom conductive plugs 303 and a plurality of first conductive plugs 306 are first formed in the substrate 301, wherein the bottom conductive plugs 303 are located in the substrate in the chip main body region I, and the first conductive plugs 306 are located in the substrate in the chip peripheral region II. Fig.24 As shown, a bottom conductive metal layer 302 is then formed on the bottom conductive plug 303 , a first metal ring 305 is formed on the first conductive plug 306 , and a diffusion barrier layer 308 is formed on the substrate.
[0192] Specifically, a conductive plug groove is first formed in the substrate by photolithography and etching processes, and then a conductive plug material (such as W) is deposited in the conductive plug groove, and excess conductive plug material outside the conductive plug groove is removed by chemical corrosion or chemical mechanical polishing. In order to enhance the bonding between the conductive plug 303 and the first conductive plug 306 and the substrate 301, and reduce the diffusion of the conductive plug material, an adhesive layer 304, 307 can be deposited on the bottom surface and sidewall of the conductive plug groove before depositing the conductive plug. The diffusion barrier layer 308 is used to prevent the diffusion of the bottom conductive metal layer 302 and the first metal ring 305. The material of the diffusion barrier layer 308 includes but is not limited to silicon carbonitride.
[0193] See also Figure 25 to Figure 28, execute step S302: form a dielectric layer 309 on the diffusion barrier layer, and form a metal interconnect structure 310 and a bonding pad 311 in the dielectric layer 309, the conductive metal layer of the metal interconnect structure 310 and the bonding pad 311 are located in the chip main body area I, and the bonding pad 311 is close to the edge of the chip main body area I.
[0194] Specifically, the metal interconnect structure 310 includes at least two conductive metal layers. In this embodiment, the metal interconnect structure 310 includes two conductive metal layers 310a and 310b, and the two adjacent conductive metal layers are connected by a conductive column 310c, and the conductive column 310d of the bottom layer is connected below the conductive metal layer 310b of the bottom layer. The materials of the conductive metal layers 310a, 310b and the conductive column 310c include but are not limited to tungsten, copper, aluminum, etc.
[0195] As an example, Fig.25 As shown, a first dielectric layer 309a is first formed on the diffusion barrier layer 308, and a bottom conductive column 310d is formed in the first dielectric layer 309a of the chip main body region I. The material of the bottom conductive column 310d can be tungsten. Fig.25 The structure of the bottom conductive column 310d after chemical mechanical polishing is shown. Fig.26 As shown, a conductive metal layer 310b is then formed on the bottom conductive column 310d. Fig.26 The structure shown is that of the conductive metal layer 310b after being etched and patterned. Fig. 27 As shown, a second dielectric layer 309b is then formed on the first dielectric layer 309a, and a conductive column through hole 310c' is formed in the second dielectric layer 309b. Fig.28 As shown, a conductive column 310c and a conductive metal layer 310a are formed in the second dielectric layer 309b. Fig.28 The structure shown is that of the conductive metal layer 310a after etching and patterning. The material of the first dielectric layer 309a can be silicon dioxide or low-k dielectric. The material of the second dielectric layer 309b can be silicon dioxide or low-k dielectric.
[0196] See also Fig.29 , perform step 303: form a passivation protection layer 312 on the dielectric layer 309. In this embodiment, the material of the passivation protection layer 312 is oxide, such as silicon dioxide.
[0197] See also Fig.30 , perform step 304 : forming a photoresist layer 319 on the passivation protection layer 312 .
[0198] In this embodiment, the photoresist layer 319 is further patterned by photolithography processes such as exposure and development to obtain a photoresist layer opening 319', which is annular and located in the chip peripheral area II. The photoresist layer opening' can be formed by photolithography or laser drilling.
[0199] See also Fig.31 , execute step S305: use the patterned photoresist layer 319 as a mask to etch downward to form a moat groove structure in the chip peripheral area II to block the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main body area I, wherein the moat groove structure is aligned with the moat ring structure and includes at least two discretely arranged groove rings 314, wherein the groove ring 314 opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 312 and extends downward to the dielectric layer 309, but does not penetrate the diffusion barrier layer 308.
[0200] In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the groove ring 314 is relatively located on the top surface of the diffusion barrier layer 308 and includes a non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 309 a .
[0201] In this embodiment, during the process of etching the passivation protection layer 312 in this step, a test opening exposing the bond pad is not formed above the bond pad at the same time. Instead, the bond pad is exposed while etching the filling layer in a subsequent process flow.
[0202] See also Fig.32 , step S306 is performed: forming a conformal layer 320 on the sidewall and bottom surface of the groove ring 314 and the top surface of the passivation protection layer 312. In this embodiment, the conformal layer 320 is made of silicon nitride.
[0203] See also Fig.33 , executing step S307: forming a filling layer 313 on the surface of the conformal layer 320, the filling layer 313 fills into the remaining space of the groove ring 314 to close the opening of the groove ring 314, and the portion of the filling layer 313 located in the groove ring 314 has an air gap 321.
[0204] In this embodiment, the material of the filling layer 313 is oxide, such as silicon dioxide.
[0205] See also Fig.34 , perform step S308: forming a polymer layer 322 on the top surface of the filling layer 313. The material of the polymer layer 322 includes but is not limited to polyimide.
[0206] In this embodiment, the step of etching the polymer layer 322 and the filling layer to form an opening 315 in the chip body area is also included. The opening 315 extends downward to the surface of the bonding pad to serve as a test hole.
[0207] It should be noted that in other embodiments, the metal interconnect structure 310 may have more layers of metal, and its manufacturing process is not limited to the above process flow, for example, a single damascene process or a dual damascene process may be selected as needed, and the protection scope of the present invention should not be excessively limited here.
[0208] The chip inner moat structure and the manufacturing method thereof of the present invention arrange a groove ring in the chip peripheral area to surround the chip main area, and fill the groove ring with two passivation protective layers, and at the same time form an air gap in the groove ring, and utilize the air gap to buffer the mechanical stress in the wafer cutting process, thereby blocking the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main area, which can effectively prevent the generation of cracks in the chip. Since the passivation protective layer is used in the groove ring instead of the conventional multi-layer metal filling, the use of metal materials can be reduced, which can not only reduce the process complexity and improve the yield, but also help to reduce production costs. At the same time, the passivation protective layer filled in the groove ring can also increase the stability of the structure.
[0209] Embodiment 8
[0210] This embodiment and the seventh embodiment adopt the same technical solution, except that the groove ring 314 in the seventh embodiment opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 312 and extends downward into the dielectric layer 309, and the bottom surface of the groove ring 314 is located relatively on the top surface of the diffusion barrier layer 308 and includes the non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 309a. In this embodiment, the groove ring 314 penetrates the dielectric layer 309, and the bottom surface of the groove ring 314 includes the exposed surface of the diffusion barrier layer 308, as shown in FIG. Fig.35 shown.
[0211] Embodiment 9
[0212] This embodiment and the seventh embodiment adopt the same technical solution, except that in this embodiment, the dielectric layer 309 has an upper diffusion barrier layer 316, and the upper diffusion barrier layer 316 is located above one of the conductive metal layers to prevent the diffusion of the conductive metal layer. Fig.36, which is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the moat structure in the chip in this embodiment, as an example, the upper diffusion barrier layer 316 is located above the conductive metal layer 310b, and the bottom surface of the groove ring 314 is located on the top surface of the upper diffusion barrier layer 316 and includes the non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 309b. The material of the upper diffusion barrier layer 316 includes but is not limited to silicon carbonitride.
[0213] This embodiment is applicable to the case where the conductive metal layer 310 b is made of Cu or other easily diffusible materials.
[0214] Embodiment 10
[0215] This embodiment and the ninth embodiment adopt the same technical solution, except that the groove ring 314 in the ninth embodiment opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 312 and extends downward into the dielectric layer 309, and the bottom surface of the groove ring 314 is located relatively on the top surface of the upper diffusion barrier layer 316 and includes the non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 309b. In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the groove ring 314 includes the exposed surface of the upper diffusion barrier layer 316, as shown in FIG. Fig.37 shown.
[0216] Embodiment 11
[0217] This embodiment and the ninth embodiment adopt substantially the same technical solution, except that the metal interconnect structure 310 in this embodiment further includes at least two discretely arranged second metal rings 317 aligned on the moat structure and a plurality of second metal plugs 318 in the dielectric layer 309 in the chip peripheral area, the second metal ring 317 is located below the upper diffusion barrier layer 316, and the second metal plug 318 is connected below the second metal ring 317, as shown in FIG. Fig.38 shown.
[0218] In this embodiment, the chip peripheral area II has both a groove ring 314 and a metal ring 317, taking into account the advantages of both and reducing the use of metal materials, which can not only reduce process complexity and improve yield, but also help reduce production costs.
[0219] Embodiment 12
[0220] This embodiment and the eleventh embodiment adopt a substantially same technical solution, except that in the eleventh embodiment, the groove ring 314 opens from the top surface of the passivation protection layer 312 and extends downward into the dielectric layer 309, and the bottom surface of the groove ring 314 is located relatively to the top surface of the upper diffusion barrier layer 316 and includes a non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer 309b. In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the groove ring 314 includes an exposed surface of the upper diffusion barrier layer 316, such as Fig.39 shown.
[0221] In summary, the chip inner moat structure and its manufacturing method of the present invention arrange a groove ring in the chip peripheral area, the groove ring surrounds the chip main body area, and the groove ring has a conformal layer and a filling layer, the filling layer can be a polymer layer, the polymer layer is a flexible material, can effectively absorb the wafer cutting stress, thereby blocking the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main body area, and preventing the generation of cracks in the chip. The filling layer can also have an air gap, and the air gap is used to buffer the mechanical stress during the wafer cutting process, thereby blocking the wafer cutting stress from being transmitted to the chip main body area, which can effectively prevent the generation of cracks in the chip. Since the non-metallic conformal layer and filling layer are used in the groove ring instead of the conventional multi-layer metal filling, the use of metal materials can be reduced, which can not only reduce the process complexity and improve the yield, but also help to reduce production costs. At the same time, the conformal layer and filling layer filled in the groove ring can also increase the stability of the structure. Therefore, the present invention effectively overcomes the various shortcomings in the prior art and has a high industrial utilization value.
[0222] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and effects of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the present invention. Anyone familiar with the art may modify or alter the above embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, all equivalent modifications or alterations made by a person of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and technical concept disclosed by the present invention shall still be covered by the claims of the present invention.
Claims
1. A method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip, characterized in that: The following steps are involved: A substrate is provided, wherein a diffusion barrier layer is provided on the surface of the substrate, and a chip main body area and a chip peripheral area surrounding the chip main body area are defined on the substrate, and a moat ring structure is embedded in the substrate, located in the chip peripheral area and covered under the diffusion barrier layer; Forming a dielectric layer on the diffusion barrier layer, and forming a metal interconnect structure and a bonding pad in the dielectric layer, wherein the conductive metal layer of the metal interconnect structure and the bonding pad are located in the chip main body region; forming a passivation protection layer on the dielectric layer; forming a moat groove structure in the chip peripheral area, the moat groove structure is aligned with the moat ring structure and includes at least two separately arranged groove rings, wherein the groove rings extend downward into the dielectric layer but do not penetrate the diffusion barrier layer, and the groove rings surround the chip main body area; Forming a surface protection layer on the passivation protection layer, the surface protection layer sequentially including a conformal layer and a filling layer from bottom to top, the conformal layer is also formed on the sidewall and bottom of the groove ring, and the filling layer is also filled into the groove ring; The material of the filling layer includes a polymer, the polymer is a flexible material, and the material of the conformal layer includes carbon; A portion of the filling layer located in the groove ring has an air gap.
2. The method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip according to claim 1, characterized in that: The passivation protection layer includes an oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer from bottom to top. When the moat groove structure is formed in the peripheral area of the chip, an opening is simultaneously formed in the main area of the chip and penetrates the oxide layer and the silicon nitride layer to expose the bonding pad.
3. The method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip according to claim 1, characterized in that: The material of the passivation protection layer includes oxide.
4. The method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip according to claim 1, characterized in that: The moat ring structure includes at least two discretely arranged first metal rings and a plurality of first conductive plugs, the diffusion barrier layer covers the first metal rings, the conductive plugs are connected below the first metal rings, and the groove ring is longitudinally aligned with the first metal rings.
5. The method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip according to claim 4, characterized in that: The dielectric layer comprises an upper diffusion barrier layer, and the upper diffusion barrier layer is located above one of the conductive metal layers of the metal interconnect structure to prevent diffusion of the conductive metal layer below. The metal interconnect structure further comprises at least two discretely arranged second metal rings aligned on the moat ring structure and a plurality of second metal plugs in the dielectric layer in the chip peripheral area, the second metal ring is located below the upper diffusion barrier layer, and the second metal plug is connected below the second metal ring.
6. The method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip according to claim 1, characterized in that: A bottom surface of the groove ring is located opposite to a top surface of the diffusion barrier layer and includes a non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer.
7. The method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip according to claim 1, characterized in that: The slot ring penetrates the dielectric layer, and a bottom surface of the slot ring includes an exposed surface of the diffusion barrier layer.
8. The method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip according to claim 1, characterized in that: The width of the groove ring is in the range of 1 to 3 μm, the height of the groove ring is in the range of 2 to 10 μm, and the spacing between adjacent groove rings is in the range of 4 to 90 μm.
9. The method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The metal interconnect structure comprises at least two conductive metal layers on the diffusion barrier layer, two adjacent conductive metal layers are connected by conductive pillars, and a bottom conductive pillar is connected below the conductive metal layer located at the bottom layer.
10. The method for manufacturing a moat structure in a chip according to claim 9, characterized in that: The substrate in the chip main area further comprises a bottom conductive metal layer and a plurality of bottom conductive plugs located on the same layer structure as the moat ring structure. The bottom conductive plugs are connected below the bottom conductive metal layer, and the metal interconnection structure passes through the diffusion barrier layer and is connected above the bottom conductive metal layer.
11. A moat structure in a chip, characterized in that: include: A substrate, on which a chip main body area and a chip peripheral area surrounding the chip main body area are defined; A diffusion barrier layer is located on the surface of the substrate, and a moat ring structure is embedded in the substrate, located in the peripheral area of the chip and covered under the diffusion barrier layer; A dielectric layer, located on the surface of the diffusion barrier layer; A metal interconnect structure and a bonding pad are located in the dielectric layer, and the conductive metal layer of the metal interconnect structure and the bonding pad are located in the chip body area; A passivation protection layer, located on the surface of the dielectric layer; A moat groove structure is formed in the chip peripheral area and aligned with the moat ring structure, wherein the moat groove structure includes at least two discretely arranged groove rings, the groove rings extend downward into the dielectric layer but do not penetrate the diffusion barrier layer, and the groove rings surround the chip main body area; A surface protection layer is located on the passivation protection layer, and the surface protection layer includes a conformal layer and a filling layer from bottom to top, wherein the conformal layer is also formed on the side wall and the bottom of the groove ring, and the filling layer is also filled into the groove ring; the material of the filling layer includes a polymer, the polymer is a flexible material, and the material of the conformal layer includes carbon; A portion of the filling layer located in the groove ring has an air gap.
12. The chip inner moat structure according to claim 11, characterized in that: The passivation protection layer includes an oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer in sequence from bottom to top.
13. The chip inner moat structure according to claim 12, characterized in that: The chip inner moat structure further has an opening formed in the chip main body region and penetrating the oxide layer and the silicon nitride layer to expose the bonding pad.
14. The chip inner moat structure according to claim 11, characterized in that: The material of the passivation protection layer includes oxide.
15. The chip inner moat structure according to claim 11, characterized in that: The moat ring structure includes at least two discretely arranged first metal rings and a plurality of first conductive plugs, the diffusion barrier layer covers the first metal rings, the conductive plugs are connected below the first metal rings, and the groove ring is longitudinally aligned with the first metal rings.
16. The chip inner moat structure according to claim 15, characterized in that: The dielectric layer comprises an upper diffusion barrier layer, and the upper diffusion barrier layer is located above one of the conductive metal layers of the metal interconnect structure to prevent diffusion of the conductive metal layer below. The metal interconnect structure further comprises at least two discretely arranged second metal rings aligned on the moat ring structure and a plurality of second metal plugs in the dielectric layer in the chip peripheral area, the second metal ring is located below the upper diffusion barrier layer, and the second metal plug is connected below the second metal ring.
17. The chip inner moat structure according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that: A bottom surface of the groove ring is located opposite to a top surface of the diffusion barrier layer and includes a non-penetrating surface of the dielectric layer.
18. The chip inner moat structure according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that: The slot ring penetrates the dielectric layer, and a bottom surface of the slot ring includes an exposed surface of the diffusion barrier layer.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
On chip moat structure
CN208806243U