Metal-Layer Etching Composition for Molybdenum Rate Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing semiconductor device manufacturing processes face challenges in effectively controlling the etching rates of metal-containing layers, particularly those containing molybdenum, which can impact device reliability and electrical characteristics.

Innovation Solution

A composition comprising an oxidizing agent, an acid, and an etching controller, represented by specific compounds, is used to treat metal-containing layers, controlling their etching rates and preventing excessive etching of molybdenum.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional etching compositions are used on metal-containing layers, then etching process can be performed, but etching rate control is insufficient and excessive etching damage occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveetching rate controlVSAvoidetching damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a specific etching controller compound (containing hydroxyl or thiol groups with alkyl chains) as an intermediary substance that mediates between the etching agents and the metal-containing layer. This compound adsorbs onto the metal surface and regulates the etching reaction, preventing excessive etching damage while maintaining effective etching rates for semiconductor device manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies the chemical composition parameters of the etching solution by incorporating specific etching controllers with defined molecular structures (Formula 1 with specific X1, X2, L1, m, R1, R2 parameters). These parameter changes in the composition enable precise control over etching rates and reduce etching damage to metal-containing layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If etching processes are performed on metal-containing layers, then layer patterning is achieved, but device reliability deteriorates due to component damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer patterningVSAvoiddevice reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The etching controller compound serves as a protective intermediary that allows patterning to proceed while shielding the metal-containing layer components from excessive damage. This mediator enables the etching process to achieve necessary patterning precision without compromising device reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If standard etching compositions are used, then processing can be completed, but etching rate uniformity across different metal layers is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidetching rate uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The etching controller compound exhibits universal functionality across different metal-containing layers (such as molybdenum, tungsten, copper, and their nitrides/oxides). The compound's molecular structure (Formula 1 with variable parameters) allows it to effectively regulate etching rates uniformly across multiple metal layer types, enabling consistent processing efficiency and precision throughout the semiconductor device manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 composition effectively manages etching rates, enhancing the quality of semiconductor devices by minimizing damage to metal-containing layers, thereby improving reliability and electrical performance.

Implementation Method 1

an oxidizing agent

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOxidation: Oxidation

Implementation Method 2

an acid

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChemical reaction: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentUS20260035801A1Composition, method of treating metal-containing layer by using the same, and method of manufacturing semiconductor device by using the same
Publication Date: 2026.02.05 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US20260035801A1 patent drawing
  • US20260035801A1 patent drawing
  • US20260035801A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided are a composition, a method of treating a metal-containing layer by using the same, and/or a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device by using the same. The composition may include an oxidizing agent, an acid, and an etching controller, wherein the etching controller may include at least one compound represented by Formula 1:A description of Formula 1 is provided in the specification of the present application.