Patent ID: 8431329
Filing Date: 2013-04-30
Classification: G03F,H01L

Abstract:
1. A self-aligned spacer multiple patterning method, comprising: (a) providing a semiconductor substrate comprising one or more layers to be patterned; (b) applying a first layer of a first photosensitive composition over the one or more layers to be patterned, wherein the first photosensitive composition comprises a first resin component and a first photoactive component; (c) exposing the first layer to activating radiation through a patterned photomask; (d) developing the exposed first layer to form a resist pattern; (e) heat treating the resist pattern in a hardbake process; (f) treating the hardbaked resist pattern with a material effective to make alkaline a surface of the resist pattern; (g) applying a second layer of a second photosensitive composition over the one or more layers to be patterned and in contact with the alkaline surface of the resist pattern, the second photosensitive composition comprising a second resin component and a photoacid generator; (h) exposing the second layer to activating radiation; and (i) developing the exposed second layer to form spacers over the one or more layers to be patterned, the spacers comprising portions of the second layer not removed during the second layer development.