Patent ID: 6485895
Filing Date: 2002-11-26
Classification: G03F

Abstract:
A method for forming a fine pattern in a semiconductor substrate, comprising the steps of:(a) coating a target layer to be etched on a semiconductor substrate with a resist composition, the resist composition comprising at least one compound capable of forming a photoresist pattern by a photolithography process and a crosslinking agent capable of causing a partial crosslinking reaction in the resist composition at a temperature equal to or higher than the glass transition temperature or the softening temperature of the at least one compound, wherein said coating step results in forming a resist compound layer comprising the resist composition; (b) performing a lithography process on the resist compound layer to form a photoresist pattern of at least one opening having a first width, where the target layer is exposed through the first width; and (c) heating the resist compound layer having the photoresist pattern formed therein to a temperature equal to or higher than the glass transition temperature or the softening temperature of the at least one compound, and wherein a partial cross-linking reaction in the resist composition resulting in a modified photoresist pattern having at least one opening having a second width which exposes the target layer, wherein said second width is smaller than the first width, wherein said step of heating the resist compound layer comprises: heating the resist compound layer having the photoresist pattern formed therein to a first temperature which is equal to or higher than the glass transition temperature or the softening temperature of the at least one compound; cooling the resist compound layer having the photoresist pattern formed therein to room temperature; and heating the resist compound layer having the photoresist pattern formed therein to a second temperature which is higher then the first temperature.