Patent ID: 6720116
Filing Date: 2004-04-13
Classification: G03F

Abstract:
A method for forming a photolithographic mask and pellicle comprising:providing a substrate comprising a transparent layer over which is formed an opaque layer, said layers being respectively transparent and opaque to a preselected range of wavelengths; transferring a mask pattern to the opaque layer of said substrate by removing pattern shaped portions from said opaque layer, thereby exposing corresponding surface portions of said transparent layer beneath said opaque layer; inspecting said patterned opaque layer and repairing any discovered defects using a focused ion-beam repair method; transferring said mask pattern to said transparent layer by applying said focused ion-beam, through said patterned opaque layer, to said exposed surface portions of said transparent layer, thereby staining a bulk portion of said transparent layer beneath said exposed surfaces and rendering said bulk portion opaque to said preselected range of radiation wavelengths; removing at least the portion of said opaque material layer remaining over said patterned transparent layer, leaving behind a peripherally disposed portion to serve as an alignment boundary for a pellicle, the exposed portion of said transparent layer forming thereby a photolithographic mask.