Dual-Layer Dielectric Void Prevention in Memory Wordlines

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional memory device fabrication techniques face challenges in providing structural integrity between wordlines due to voids formed by inorganic spin-on dielectric materials, which can lead to reliability issues during subsequent processing steps.

Innovation Solution

A dual-layer dielectric structure is implemented, comprising a first organic spin-on dielectric layer and a second inorganic dielectric layer, where the second layer is deposited on top of the first layer to prevent void formation and enhance structural support between wordlines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If inorganic spin-on dielectric material is used to fill gaps between wordlines, then structural integrity is improved, but voids are formed leading to reliability issues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidreliability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies composite materials by combining organic and inorganic dielectric layers. The bottom organic dielectric layer provides void-free filling properties, while the top inorganic dielectric layer provides structural integrity and mechanical support. This composite structure resolves the contradiction by leveraging the complementary strengths of both material types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the dielectric fill material into two distinct layers: a bottom organic spin-on dielectric layer and a top inorganic spin-on dielectric layer. Each layer performs a specific function - the organic layer prevents void formation during deposition, while the inorganic layer provides the required structural strength. This segmentation allows optimization of each layer for its specific purpose.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If organic spin-on dielectric material is used to fill gaps between wordlines, then void formation is prevented, but structural support is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereliabilityVSAvoidstructural support
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses composite materials where the organic dielectric layer provides reliable void-free filling and the inorganic dielectric layer provides structural support. The combination allows both requirements to be satisfied simultaneously - the organic material ensures complete gap filling without voids, while the inorganic material adds the necessary mechanical strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by assigning different functional properties to different layers: the bottom organic layer is optimized for void-free filling and adhesion, while the top inorganic layer is optimized for structural support and mechanical strength. Each layer has locally optimized properties suited to its specific function in the composite structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The dual-layer dielectric structure effectively prevents voids and enhances the structural integrity of the memory array, improving the reliability of the memory device by providing a balance between the benefits of both materials.

Implementation Method 1

a first organic spin-on dielectric layer and a second inorganic dielectric layer, where the second layer is deposited on top of the first layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpin-on dielectric deposition: Spin Coating

Implementation Method 2

a second inorganic dielectric layer, where the second layer is deposited on top of the first layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhysical vapor deposition: Physical Vapour Deposition

Data Source

PatentUS10629652B2Dual-layer dielectric in memory device
Publication Date: 2020.04.21 INTEL CORP
  • US10629652B2 patent drawing
  • US10629652B2 patent drawing
  • US10629652B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure describe techniques and configurations for a memory device comprising a memory array having a plurality of wordlines disposed in a memory region of a die. Fill regions may be disposed between respective pairs of adjacent wordlines of the plurality of wordlines. The fill regions may include a first dielectric layer and a second dielectric layer disposed on the first dielectric layer. The first dielectric layer may comprise organic (e.g., carbon-based) spin-on dielectric material (CSOD). The second dielectric layer may comprise a different dielectric material than the first dielectric layer, such as, for example, inorganic dielectric material. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.