Patent ID: 7629673
Filing Date: 2009-12-08
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A partially completed integrated circuit device comprising: a semiconductor substrate having a surface region; an etch stop layer overlying the surface region, the etch stop layer being characterized by a thickness having at least a first thickness portion and a second thickness portion, the second thickness portion having an etch stop surface region; a silicon dioxide material provided within the first thickness portion of the etch stop layer; a silicon nitride material provided within the second thickness portion of the etch stop layer, the silicon nitride material being provided on the etch stop surface region; a graduated profile characterized by the silicon dioxide material having an initial ratio of about one silicon to two oxygen in the first thickness portion gradually changing to the silicon nitride material at a final ratio of about one silicon to one nitrogen in the second thickness portion; an etchable material overlying the etch stop surface region, the etchable material being characterized by a silicon dioxide bearing material.