Patent ID: 7482110
Filing Date: 2009-01-27
Classification: G03F

Abstract:
1. A method for adapting structure dimensions during a photolithographic projection of a pattern of structure elements onto a semiconductor wafer, the method comprising: providing a semiconductor wafer with a resist layer applied on a front side; providing an exposure device with a projection objective and a light source, the exposure device suitable for emitting light having a first intensity in a first polarization plane and with a second intensity in a second polarization plane; providing a reticle with a pattern of structure elements, the pattern comprising at least one first structure element having a first width and a first length; defining a set of exposure parameters for the exposure device, the exposure parameters being chosen such that a dimensionally accurate imaging results from a projection of the reticle with the pattern, said imaging being achieved using a ratio of the first intensity to the second intensity that has a first value such that an element corresponding to the first structure element on the resist layer has a second width and a second length; altering the first intensity in the first polarization plane and/or the second intensity in the second polarization plane; and photolithographically patterning the resist layer by means of the reticle in order to form a resist structure, the first intensity and the second intensity being chosen such that the second length, in a manner dependent on the first intensity and the second intensity, deviates by up to 30% from the length obtained from the dimensionally accurate imaging, wherein the second width is about as dimensionally accurate imaging width obtained with the first value.