Patent ID: 11424266

Abstract:
Embodiments of 3D memory devices and methods for forming the same are disclosed. In an example, a method for forming a 3D memory device is disclosed. A NAND memory string extending vertically through a dielectric stack including a plurality of interleaved sacrificial layers and dielectric layers above a substrate is formed. A slit opening extending vertically through the interleaved sacrificial layers and dielectric layers of the dielectric stack is formed. A plurality of lateral recesses is formed by removing the sacrificial layers through the slit opening. A plurality of gate-to-gate dielectric layers are formed by oxidizing the dielectric layers through the slit opening and the lateral recesses. A memory stack including a plurality of interleaved gate conductive layers and the gate-to-gate dielectric layers by depositing the gate conductive layers into the lateral recesses through the slit opening.