Patent ID: 9196591
Filing Date: 2015-11-24
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a semiconductor structure, the method comprising: forming a recess within a silicon substrate of an integrated circuit (IC) chip, wherein the recess is located near a circuit of the IC chip; forming a metal layer in a bottom portion of the recess; and exposing the IC chip to an oxygen-containing environment to initiate an oxidation of a portion of the silicon substrate located below the metal layer in the bottom portion of the recess and above the circuit, wherein a thickness of the portion of the silicon substrate located below the metal layer in the bottom portion of the recess and above the circuit determines a time for the portion of the silicon substrate to be oxidized and reach the circuit, and wherein the time for the portion of the silicon substrate to be oxidized corresponds to a shelf life for the IC chip.