Patent ID: 6225203
Filing Date: 2001-05-01
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
A method of forming silicon nitride spacers in the fabrication of an integrated circuit comprising:forming semiconductor device structures on a semiconductor substrate wherein said semiconductor device structures have top and side surfaces;depositing a layer of silicon nitride over the surface of said semiconductor substrate and overlying said semiconductor device structures; andetching away said silicon nitride layer using a two-step etching process comprising:first etching away 70 to 85% of said silicon nitride layer using Cl.sub.2 and He chemistry; andsecond etching away remaining said silicon nitride on said top surface of said semiconductor device structures layer using SF.sub.6, CHF.sub.3, and He chemistry to leave said silicon nitride spacers on said side surfaces of said semiconductor device structures in the manufacture of said integrated circuit device.