Resolution, LER and Sensitivity Limitations of Photoresists

Recent experimental results and modeling both indicate that whereas it is possible to optimize a photoresist and process to achieve separately a desired resolution or line edge roughness or sensitivity, it will be difficult if not impossible to achieve all three simultaneously using current standard chemically amplified photoresists and processes. This tradeoff among Resolution, Line Edge Roughness (LER) and Sensitivity is termed the RLS tradeoff. Here we review the progress to date of a SEMATECH-funded program to develop an experimentally verified model of the relationship among resolution, LER and sensitivity and use it to determine approaches for "breaking" the RLS tradeoff.