Patent ID: 6331227
Filing Date: 2001-12-18
Classification: H01J,H01L

Abstract:
A gas cluster ion beam (GCIB) etching apparatus comprising:a system for producing a gas cluster ion beam utilized to controllably etch a substrate, said gas cluster ion beam initially being directed along a longitudinal axis;a portion of the GCIB etching apparatus being operably connected to said beam producing system, said portion containing the substrate to be etched when the substrate is impacted by said gas cluster ion beam;said portion of the GCIB etching apparatus including means for directing said gas cluster ion beam in a direction offset from said longitudinal axis while permitting unwanted ionizing radiation to remain directed along said longitudinal axis; andmeans within said portion of the GCIB etching apparatus for positioning the substrate in line with said offset gas cluster ion beam;wherein said unwanted ionizing radiation is substantially prevented from impinging upon the substrate during the etching process.