Patent ID: 8034711
Filing Date: 2011-10-11
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A method of fabricating a bonding structure, comprising the steps of: forming an insulating layer over a substrate; forming a copper-based pad in the insulating layer; recessing the copper-based pad to form a recessed copper-based pad and an opening exposing the recessed copper-based pad in the insulating layer; forming a protection layer in the opening, wherein the protection layer has a substantially planar surface which is level with a top surface of the insulating layer and is vertically self-aligned with a top surface of the recessed copper-based pad without an addition photolithography process for patterning thereof, and wherein the protection layer is a copper compound formed of copper nitride; forming a passivation layer over the copper-based pad and the insulating layer; and patterning the passivation layer to expose a portion of the protection layer.