Patent ID: 8048764
Filing Date: 2011-11-01
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a hardmask for defining shallow trench isolation regions in a semiconductor substrate layer, comprising the steps of: depositing a hardmask layer over the semiconductor substrate layer; depositing and patterning a first photoresist layer over the hardmask layer; etching the hardmask layer after patterning the first photoresist layer to form an interim hardmask layer having at least one line feature; depositing and patterning a second photoresist layer over the interim hardmask layer, thereby forming a patterned second photoresist layer; and forming a hardmask, the forming step including etching the interim hardmask layer after patterning the second photoresist layer to define a line end of the at least one line feature, wherein the patterned second photoresist layer has a first portion overlying regions of the interim hardmask layer to be etched in the hardmask forming step and a second portion overlying regions of the interim hardmask layer to be protected from etching during the hardmask forming step, the second portion being thicker than the first portion, and wherein the hardmask forming step comprises etching through the patterned second photoresist layer and the interim hardmask layer together.