Patent ID: 12211687

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT

Hereinafter, a substrate treatment apparatus and a substrate treatment method according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the diagrams, the same reference signs are applied to portions which are the same or corresponding, and description thereof will not be repeated. In this specification of the application, in order to facilitate the understanding of the present embodiment, an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis which are orthogonal to each other may be indicated. Typically, the X axis and the Y axis are parallel to a horizontal direction, and the Z axis is parallel to a vertical direction.

With reference toFIG.1, a substrate treatment apparatus100according to the present embodiment will be described.FIG.1is a schematic view of the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment.

The substrate treatment apparatus100performs treatment of a substrate W. The substrate treatment apparatus100performs treatment of the substrate W such that at least one of etching, surface treatment, characterization, formation of a treatment film, and removal and cleaning of at least a portion of a film is performed with respect to the substrate W.

The substrate W has a thin plate shape. Typically, the substrate W has substantially a thin disk shape. Examples of the substrate W include a semiconductor wafer, a substrate for a liquid crystal display device, a substrate for a plasma display, a substrate for a field emission display (FED), a substrate for an optical disc, a substrate for a magnetic disk, a substrate for a magneto-optical disk, a substrate for a photomask, a ceramic substrate, and a substrate for a solar battery. For example, the substrate W has a pattern for forming a three-dimensional flash memory (for example, a three-dimensional NAND flash memory). In the following description, as an example, the substrate W is a semiconductor wafer.

The substrate treatment apparatus100collectively performs treatment of a plurality of substrates W. The substrate treatment apparatus100may perform treatment of many substrates W by treating a predetermined number of substrates W at a time. A predetermined number is an integer of 1 or larger. Here, the substrate treatment apparatus100collectively performs treatment of a plurality of substrates W. Specifically, the substrate treatment apparatus100performs treatment of a plurality of substrates W in units of a lot. For example, one lot is constituted of 25 substrates W. The number of substrates W in one lot may be 50 or 100.

For example, the substrate treatment apparatus100performs etching treatment of a silicon oxide film (SiO2film) or a silicon nitride film (SiN film) with respect to a surface of the substrate W (silicon substrate) on a pattern formation side. In such etching treatment, either of the silicon oxide film or the silicon nitride film is removed from the surface of the substrate W.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the substrate treatment apparatus100includes a plurality of storing parts102, a feeding part104, a dispensing part106, a delivering mechanism120, a buffer unit BU, a first conveyance device CTC, a second conveyance device WTR, a treatment part130, and a control device190.

The treatment part130includes a first treatment device140, a second treatment device150, and a third treatment device200. The first treatment device140, the second treatment device150, and the third treatment device200are disposed side by side in one direction. For example, the first treatment device140, the second treatment device150, and the third treatment device200are disposed in the order of the third treatment device200, the first treatment device140, and the second treatment device150from a side closer to a conveyance path of the first conveyance device CTC while being adjacent to the conveyance path of the first conveyance device CTC. For this reason, the first treatment device140is positioned between the second treatment device150and the third treatment device200.

Here, the first treatment device140performs chemical solution treatment with respect to the substrates W, the second treatment device150performs rinse treatment with respect to the substrates W, and the third treatment device200performs drying treatment with respect to the substrates W.

Each of the plurality of storing parts102accommodates a plurality of substrates W. Each of the substrates W is accommodated in the storing part102in a horizontal posture. For example, the storing part102is a front opening unified pod (FOUP).

The storing part102placed in the feeding part104stores the substrates W which have not been treated by the treatment part130. The feeding part104includes a plurality of placement bases104a. Here, two storing parts102are respectively placed in two placement bases104a.

The storing part102placed in the dispensing part106stores the substrates W which have been treated by the treatment part130. The dispensing part106includes a plurality of placement bases106a. Two storing parts102are respectively placed in two placement bases106a. The dispensing part106stores the treated substrates W in the storing part102and dispenses the storing part102in its entirety.

The buffer unit BU is disposed adjacent to the feeding part104and the dispensing part106. The buffer unit BU entirely takes in the storing part102placed in the feeding part104with the substrates W therein and places the storing part102in a rack (not illustrated). In addition, the buffer unit BU receives the treated substrates W, stores the substrates W in the storing part102, and places the storing part102in the rack. The delivering mechanism120is disposed inside the buffer unit BU.

The delivering mechanism120delivers the storing part102between the feeding part104and the dispensing part106, and the rack. In addition, the delivering mechanism120performs delivering of only the substrates W with respect to the first conveyance device CTC. Namely, the delivering mechanism120performs delivering of a lot of the substrates W with respect to the first conveyance device CTC.

The first conveyance device CTC receives a lot of a plurality of untreated substrates W from the delivering mechanism120, then converts postures of the plurality of substrates W into vertical postures from horizontal postures, and delivers the plurality of substrates W to the second conveyance device WTR. In addition, the first conveyance device CTC receives a lot of a plurality of treated substrates W from the second conveyance device WTR, then converts the postures of the plurality of substrates W into horizontal postures from vertical postures, and delivers the lot of the substrates W to the delivering mechanism120.

The second conveyance device WTR can move from the third treatment device200to the second treatment device150in a longitudinal direction of the substrate treatment apparatus100. The second conveyance device WTR can carry in and carry out a lot of the substrates W with respect to the first treatment device140, the second treatment device150, and the third treatment device200.

The first treatment device140includes a treatment tank (not illustrated inFIG.1) for storing a chemical solution. The first treatment device140performs chemical solution treatment of a plurality of substrates W by causing the substrates W to be immersed in the chemical solution stored in the treatment tank.

Examples of the chemical solution include a dilute hydrofluoric acid (DHF), a hydrofluoric acid (HF), a fluoronitric acid (a liquid mixture of a hydrofluoric acid and a nitric acid (HNO3)), a buffered hydrofluoric acid (BHF), an ammonium fluoride, an HFEG (a liquid mixture of a hydrofluoric acid and an ethylene glycol), a phosphoric acid (H3PO4), a sulfuric acid, an acetic acid, a nitric acid, a hydrochloric acid, ammonia water, a hydrogen peroxide solution, an organic acid (for example, a citric acid or an oxalic acid), an organic alkali (for example, TMAH: tetramethylammonium hydroxide), a sulfuric acid-hydrogen peroxide solution mixture (SPM), an ammonia-hydrogen peroxide solution mixture (SC1), a hydrochloric acid-hydrogen peroxide solution mixture (SC2), an isopropyl alcohol (IPA), a surfactant, a corrosion inhibitor, and a hydrophobic agent.

The second treatment device150is disposed adjacent to the first treatment device140. The second treatment device150includes a treatment tank (not illustrated inFIG.1) for storing a rinse liquid. The second treatment device150performs rinse treatment of a plurality of substrates W by causing the substrates W to be immersed in the rinse liquid stored in the treatment tank.

The rinse liquid is any of pure water (DIW: deionized water), carbonated water, electrolytically ionized water, hydrogen water, ozone water, and hydrochloric acid water having a diluted concentration (for example, approximately 10 ppm to 100 ppm). For example, pure water is deionized water.

The third treatment device200stores a lot of a plurality of substrates W and performs drying treatment with respect to the plurality of substrates W. The third treatment device200dries the substrates W by supplying an IPA and a water repellent agent to the substrates. An example of the third treatment device200will be described below.

The control device190controls various kinds of operation of the substrate treatment apparatus100. In detail, the control device190controls the delivering mechanism120, the first conveyance device CTC, the second conveyance device WTR, and the treatment part130. For example, the control device190is a computer.

The control device190includes a control part192and a storage part194. The control part192has a processor. For example, the control part192has a central processing unit (CPU). Alternatively, the control part192may have a general-purpose processing unit.

The storage part194stores data and computer programs. The data includes recipe data. The recipe data includes information indicating a plurality of recipes. Each of the plurality of recipes stipulates details of treatment and a treatment procedure of the substrates W.

The storage part194includes a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. For example, the main storage device is a semiconductor memory. For example, the auxiliary storage device is a semiconductor memory and/or a hard disk drive. The storage part194may include a removable medium. The storage part194corresponds to an example of a non-transitory computer readable storage medium.

The computer programs of which the procedure is set in advance are stored in the storage part194. The substrate treatment apparatus100operates in accordance with the procedure set in the computer programs. The control part192executes operation of substrate treatment by executing the computer programs stored in the storage part194. The processor of the control part192controls the delivering mechanism120, the first conveyance device CTC, the second conveyance device WTR, and the treatment part130by executing the computer programs stored in the storage part194.

Next, with reference toFIGS.1and2, a flow of substrate treatment in the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment will be described.FIG.2is a flowchart of substrate treatment in the substrate treatment apparatus100.

As illustrated inFIG.2, in Step S102, the substrates W are carried in. For example, the storing part102storing untreated substrates W is placed in the feeding part104. The delivering mechanism120receives the storing part102placed in the feeding part104, takes out a lot of the substrates W from the storing part102, and delivers the lot of the substrates W to the first conveyance device CTC. The first conveyance device CTC delivers the received lot of the substrates W to the second conveyance device WTR.

In Step S104, chemical solution treatment is performed with respect to the substrates W. For example, the second conveyance device WTR carries in a plurality of substrates W to the first treatment device140. The first treatment device140causes the substrates W to be immersed in the chemical solution stored in the treatment tank, thereby performing treatment of the substrates W with the chemical solution. Thereafter, the second conveyance device WTR carries out the plurality of substrates W from the first treatment device140.

In Step S106, rinse treatment is performed with respect to the substrates W. For example, the second conveyance device WTR carries in a plurality of substrates W to the second treatment device150. The second treatment device150causes the substrates W to be immersed in the rinse liquid stored in the treatment tank, thereby performing treatment of the substrates W with the rinse liquid. Thereafter, the second conveyance device WTR carries out the plurality of substrates W from the second treatment device150.

In Step S108, drying treatment is performed with respect to the substrates W. For example, the second conveyance device WTR carries in a plurality of substrates W to the third treatment device200. The third treatment device200performs drying treatment with respect to the substrates W. Thereafter, the second conveyance device WTR carries out the plurality of substrates W from the third treatment device200.

In Step S110, when the second conveyance device WTR delivers the lot of a plurality of treated substrates W to the first conveyance device CTC, the first conveyance device CTC converts the postures of the plurality of substrates W into horizontal postures from vertical postures and delivers the substrates W to the delivering mechanism120. The delivering mechanism120stores the substrates W in the storing part102and delivers the storing part102to the dispensing part106. Thereafter, the dispensing part106dispenses the storing part102storing the treated substrates W in its entirety.

According to the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment, chemical solution treatment, rinse treatment, and drying treatment can be sequentially executed with respect to a plurality of substrates W.

With reference to (a) and (b) ofFIG.3, the first treatment device140will be described. (a) and (b) ofFIG.3are schematic perspective views of the first treatment device140in the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment. (a) and (b) ofFIG.3are schematic perspective view of the first treatment device140of the present embodiment. (a) ofFIG.3is a schematic perspective view before the substrates W are immersed in a chemical solution L1inside a treatment tank142, and (b) ofFIG.3is a schematic perspective view after the substrates W are immersed in the chemical solution L1inside the treatment tank142.

The chemical solution L1may contain a phosphoric acid (H3PO4). Examples of the chemical solution L1include a phosphoric acid aqueous solution, a liquid which is a phosphoric acid aqueous solution containing an additive, a mixed acid containing a phosphoric acid, and a mixed acid containing a phosphoric acid and an additive. For example, when a solution in which a phosphoric acid ((H3PO4) of substantially 89 mass % and water (deionized water) of substantially 11 mass % are mixed at substantially 157° C. is used as the chemical solution L1(which will hereinafter be described as “a phosphoric acid solution”), the silicon nitride film (SiN film) is removed from the surfaces of the substrates W. In other words, a solution containing no impurities and having a high temperature and a high acid concentration is used as the chemical solution L1, and the chemical solution L1dissolves the silicon (Si4+). As long as the substrates W can be treated, the kind of the chemical solution L1is not particularly limited. In addition, the temperature of the chemical solution L1is also not particularly limited.

The first treatment device140includes the treatment tank142, a substrate holding part144, and a chemical solution supply part146. The treatment tank142stores the chemical solution L1for performing treatment of the substrates W. The chemical solution supply part146supplies the chemical solution L1to the treatment tank142.

The substrate holding part144holds the substrates W. A normal direction of main surfaces of the substrates W held by the substrate holding part144is parallel to a Y direction. A plurality of substrates W is arranged in a row in the Y direction. In other words, a plurality of substrates W is arranged substantially parallel to the horizontal direction. In addition, a normal line of each of the plurality of substrates W extends in the Y direction, and each of the plurality of substrates W extends in an X direction and a Z direction. The substrate holding part144moves the substrates W while holding the substrates W. For example, the substrate holding part144moves vertically upward or vertically downward in the vertical direction while holding the substrates W.

Typically, the substrate holding part144collectively holds a plurality of substrates W. Here, the substrate holding part144holds the substrates W arranged in a row in the Y direction in a substrate row.

Specifically, the substrate holding part144includes a lifter. The substrate holding part144moves vertically upward or vertically downward in a state of holding a plurality of substrates W. When the substrate holding part144moves vertically downward, the plurality of substrates W held by the substrate holding part144is immersed in the chemical solution L1stored in the treatment tank142.

In (a) ofFIG.3, the substrate holding part144is positioned above the treatment tank142. The substrate holding part144moves vertically downward (in the Z direction) while holding the plurality of substrates W. Accordingly, the plurality of substrates W is fed to the treatment tank142.

As illustrated in (b) ofFIG.3, when the substrate holding part144moves downward to the treatment tank142, the plurality of substrates W is immersed in the chemical solution L1inside the treatment tank142. The substrate holding part144causes the plurality of substrates W lined up at predetermined intervals to be immersed in the chemical solution L1stored in the treatment tank142.

The substrate holding part144includes a main body plate144aand holding rods144b. The main body plate144ais a plate extending in the vertical direction (the Z direction). The holding rods144bextend in the horizontal direction (Y direction) from a main surface of the main body plate144aon one side. In (a) and (b) ofFIG.3, three holding rods144bextend in the horizontal direction from the main surface of the main body plate144aon one side. In a state in which a plurality of substrates W is lined up at predetermined intervals, a lower edge of each of the substrates W abuts the plurality of holding rods144band the substrates W are held in upright standing postures (vertical postures).

The substrate holding part144may further include an upward-downward movement unit144c. The upward-downward movement unit144cmoves the main body plate144aupward and downward between a lower position where a plurality of substrates W held by the holding rods144bis positioned inside the treatment tank142(the position illustrated in (b) ofFIG.3) and an upper position where a plurality of substrates W held by the holding rods144bis positioned above the treatment tank142(the position illustrated in (a) ofFIG.3). Therefore, when the main body plate144ais moved to the lower position by the upward-downward movement unit144c, a plurality of substrates W held by the holding rods144bis immersed in the chemical solution L1.

With reference to (a) and (b) ofFIG.4, the second treatment device150will be described. (a) and (b) ofFIG.4are schematic perspective views of the second treatment device150in the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment.

The second treatment device150includes a treatment tank152, a substrate holding part154, and a rinse liquid supply part156. The treatment tank152stores a rinse liquid L2for performing treatment of the substrates W. The rinse liquid supply part156supplies the rinse liquid L2to the treatment tank152.

The substrate holding part154holds the substrates W. The normal direction of the main surfaces of the substrates W held by the substrate holding part154is parallel to the Y direction. A plurality of substrates W is arranged in a row in the Y direction. In other words, a plurality of substrates W is arranged substantially parallel to the horizontal direction. In addition, the normal line of each of the plurality of substrates W extends in the Y direction, and each of the plurality of substrates W extends in the X direction and the Z direction. The substrate holding part154moves the substrates W while holding the substrates W. For example, the substrate holding part154moves vertically upward or vertically downward in the vertical direction while holding the substrates W.

Typically, the substrate holding part154collectively holds a plurality of substrates W. Here, the substrate holding part154holds the substrates W arranged in a row in the Y direction in a substrate row.

Specifically, the substrate holding part154includes a lifter. The substrate holding part154moves vertically upward or vertically downward in a state of holding a plurality of substrates W. When the substrate holding part154moves vertically downward, the plurality of substrates W held by the substrate holding part154is immersed in the rinse liquid L2stored in the treatment tank152.

In (a) ofFIG.4, the substrate holding part154is positioned above the treatment tank152. The substrate holding part154moves vertically downward (in the Z direction) while holding the plurality of substrates W. Accordingly, the plurality of substrates W is fed to the treatment tank152.

As illustrated in (b) ofFIG.4, when the substrate holding part154moves downward to the treatment tank152, the plurality of substrates W is immersed in the rinse liquid L2inside the treatment tank152. The substrate holding part154causes the plurality of substrates W lined up at predetermined intervals to be immersed in the rinse liquid L2stored in the treatment tank152.

The substrate holding part154includes a main body plate154aand holding rods154b. The main body plate154ais a plate extending in the vertical direction (the Z direction). The holding rods154bextend in the horizontal direction (Y direction) from a main surface of the main body plate154aon one side. In (a) and (b) ofFIG.4, three holding rods154bextend in the horizontal direction from the main surface of the main body plate154aon one side. In a state in which a plurality of substrates W is lined up at predetermined intervals, the lower edge of each of the substrates W abuts the plurality of holding rods154band the substrates W are held in upright standing postures (vertical postures).

The substrate holding part154may further include an upward-downward movement unit154c. The upward-downward movement unit154cmoves the main body plate154aupward and downward between the lower position where a plurality of substrates W held by the holding rods154bis positioned inside the treatment tank152(the position illustrated in (b) ofFIG.4) and the upper position where a plurality of substrates W held by the holding rods154bis positioned above the treatment tank152(the position illustrated in (a) ofFIG.4). Therefore, when the main body plate154ais moved to the lower position by the upward-downward movement unit154c, a plurality of substrates W held by the holding rods154bis immersed in the rinse liquid L2.

Next, with reference to (a) and (b) ofFIG.5, the third treatment device200in the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment will be described. (a) and (b) ofFIG.5are schematic views of the third treatment device200.

As illustrated in (a) and (b) ofFIG.5, the third treatment device200includes a chamber210, a substrate holding part220, a treatment tank230, a liquid supply part232, an isopropyl alcohol supply part240, an inert gas supply part250, a water repellent agent supply part260, and a control device290. The control device290controls the substrate holding part220, the liquid supply part232, the isopropyl alcohol supply part240, the inert gas supply part250, and the water repellent agent supply part260. Moreover, the control device290may control the chamber210. In addition, the control device290may control the atmosphere inside the chamber210and/or a stored liquid L stored in the treatment tank230. The control device290may function as a portion of the control device190illustrated inFIG.1. Alternatively, the control device290may operate in association with the control device190illustrated inFIG.1.

The chamber210has an internal space. The space of the chamber210is stipulated by a bottom surface, side surfaces, and a top surface. Typically, the chamber210has a closed structure. At least some of the substrate holding part220, the treatment tank230, the liquid supply part232, the IPA supply part240, the inert gas supply part250, and the water repellent agent supply part260are disposed inside the chamber210.

The chamber210has a main body part212and a cover214. The space of the main body part212is stipulated by a bottom surface, side surfaces, and a top surface. The top surface of the main body part212is partially open. The open portion of the main body part212is covered by the cover214. When the substrates W are fed to the chamber210, or when the substrates W are taken out from the chamber210, the cover214moves with respect to the main body part212so that a passage for the substrates W is formed.

The substrate holding part220holds the substrates W. The normal direction of the main surfaces of the substrates W held by the substrate holding part220is parallel to the Y direction. A plurality of substrates W is arranged in a row in the Y direction. In other words, a plurality of substrates W is arranged substantially parallel to the horizontal direction. In addition, the normal line of each of the plurality of substrates W extends in the Y direction, and each of the plurality of substrates W extends in the X direction and the Z direction. The substrate holding part220moves the substrates W while holding the substrates W. For example, the substrate holding part220moves vertically upward or vertically downward in the vertical direction while holding the substrates W.

Typically, the substrate holding part220collectively holds a plurality of substrates W. Here, the plurality of substrates W forms a substrate row in which the substrates W are arranged side by side in a row in the Y direction. For this reason, the substrate holding part220holds the plurality of substrates W arranged in a substrate row. The substrate holding part220may hold only one substrate W.

Specifically, the substrate holding part220includes a lifter. The substrate holding part220moves vertically upward or vertically downward in a state of holding a plurality of substrates W. When the substrate holding part220moves vertically downward, the plurality of substrates W held by the substrate holding part220is immersed in the stored liquid L stored in the treatment tank230.

As illustrated in (a) ofFIG.5, the substrate holding part220is positioned above the treatment tank230. As illustrated in (b) ofFIG.5, the substrate holding part220moves vertically downward (in the Z direction) while holding the plurality of substrates W. Accordingly, the plurality of substrates W is fed to the treatment tank230.

When the treatment tank230stores the stored liquid L, if the substrate holding part220moves downward to the treatment tank230while holding the substrates W, the plurality of substrates W is immersed in the stored liquid L inside the treatment tank230. The substrate holding part220causes the plurality of substrates W lined up at predetermined intervals to be immersed in the stored liquid L stored in the treatment tank230.

The substrate holding part220has a main body plate222and holding rods224. The main body plate222is a plate extending in the vertical direction (the Z direction). The holding rods224extend in the horizontal direction (Y direction) from a main surface of the main body plate222on one side. In (a) and (b) ofFIG.5, three holding rods224extend in the horizontal direction from the main surface of the main body plate222on one side. In a state in which a plurality of substrates W is lined up at predetermined intervals, the lower edge of each of the substrates W abuts the plurality of holding rods224and the substrates W are held in upright standing postures (vertical postures).

The substrate holding part220may further include an upward-downward movement unit226. The upward-downward movement unit226moves the main body plate222upward and downward between the lower position where a plurality of substrates W held by the holding rods224is positioned inside the treatment tank230(the position illustrated in (b) ofFIG.5) and the upper position where a plurality of substrates W held by the holding rods224is positioned above the treatment tank230(the position illustrated in (a) ofFIG.5). Therefore, when the main body plate222is moved to the lower position by the upward-downward movement unit226, a plurality of substrates W held by the holding rods224is immersed in the stored liquid L.

The treatment tank230stores the stored liquid L for performing treatment of the substrates W. The treatment tank230stores the stored liquid L. In a state in which the treatment tank230stores the stored liquid L, when the substrate holding part220causes the substrates W to be immersed in the stored liquid L in the treatment tank230, the substrates W can be treated with the stored liquid L. For example, the capacity of the treatment tank230is within a range of 5 L to 100 L.

The stored liquid L may be water. As an example, the stored liquid L may be deionized water (DIW). In addition, the stored liquid L may be an isopropyl alcohol (IPA). In addition, the stored liquid L may be a liquid mixture of a rinse liquid and an IPA.

In this specification, a diluted IPA obtained by mixing an IPA and a rinse liquid may be described as a dilute IPA. For example, a dilute IPA may be generated by mixing an IPA and a rinse liquid in a proportion of the volume ratio 1:1 to 1:1000. Hereinafter, a dilute IPA may be described as “a dIPA”.

For example, a dilute IPA is an IPA diluted with DIW. In this case, a dilute IPA is a liquid mixture of an IPA and DIW.

The liquid supply part232supplies a liquid to the treatment tank230. By means of supply of a liquid from the liquid supply part232, the treatment tank230stores the stored liquid L.

For example, the liquid supply part232may supply water. As an example, the liquid supply part232may supply DIW. In addition, the liquid supply part232may supply an isopropyl alcohol (IPA). In addition, the liquid supply part232may supply a liquid mixture of a rinse liquid and an IPA.

Typically, the liquid supply part232is disposed in the treatment tank230. For example, the liquid supply part232is disposed below the treatment tank230. The liquid supply part232is positioned on the vertically downward side of the substrates W immersed in the stored liquid L in the treatment tank230due to downward movement of the substrate holding part220.

The liquid supply part232supplies a liquid to the treatment tank230. In detail, the liquid supply part232supplies the stored liquid L stored in the treatment tank230. When the liquid supply part232supplies the stored liquid L in the treatment tank230, the treatment tank230can store the stored liquid L. It is preferable that the liquid supply part232supply a liquid obliquely upward with respect to the treatment tank230.

A gas may be supplied to the treatment tank230. For example, when an inert gas is supplied to the stored liquid L in the treatment tank230, treatment of the substrates W with the stored liquid L is promoted.

The isopropyl alcohol supply part240supplies vapor of an isopropyl alcohol to the inside of the chamber210. In this specification, an isopropyl alcohol may be described as an IPA, and the isopropyl alcohol supply part240may be described as the IPA supply part240.

The IPA supply part240supplies vapor of an IPA to the substrates W positioned above the treatment tank230. Accordingly, the substrates W can be treated with the IPA. The IPA supply part240may supply vapor of an IPA obliquely downward.

The inert gas supply part250supplies an inert gas to the inside of the chamber210. When the inert gas supply part250supplies the inert gas to the inside of the chamber210, the inside of the chamber210can be in the inert gas atmosphere. Accordingly, the oxygen concentration inside the chamber210can be reduced. In addition, since the inert gas supply part250supplies the inert gas to the inside of the chamber210, a reverse flow of a discharged gas and a discharged liquid from the chamber210can be curbed. The inert gas supply part250may supply the inert gas obliquely downward.

Moreover, the inert gas supply part250supplies the inert gas to the substrates W positioned above the treatment tank230. Accordingly, the substrates W can be subjected to drying treatment.

The inert gas includes a nitrogen gas. Alternatively, the inert gas may include an argon gas.

The water repellent agent supply part260supplies vapor of a water repellent agent SMT to the inside of the chamber210. The water repellent agent supply part260supplies vapor of the water repellent agent SMT to the substrates W positioned above the treatment tank230. Accordingly, the substrates W can be subjected to water-repellent treatment. The water repellent agent supply part260may supply vapor of the water repellent agent SMT obliquely downward.

For example, the water repellent agent SMT is a silicon-based water repellent agent, or a metal-based water repellent agent. A silicon-based water repellent agent causes a silicon or a chemical compound including a silicon to be water repellent (hydrophobic). A metal-based water repellent agent causes a metal or a chemical compound including a metal to be water repellent (hydrophobic).

For example, a silicon-based water repellent agent is a silane coupling agent. For example, the silane coupling agent includes at least one of a hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS), a tetramethylsilane (TMS), a fluorinated alkylchlorosilane, an alkyl disilazane, and a non-chlorohydrophobic agent. For example, the non-chlorohydrophobic agent includes at least one of a dimethylsilyldimethylamine, a dimethylsilyldiethylamine, a hexamethyldisilazane, a tetramethyldisilazane, a bis(dimethylamino)dimethylsilane, an N,N-dimethylaminotrimethylsilane, an N-(trimethylsilyl)dimethylamine, and an organosilane chemical compound.

For example, a metal-based water repellent agent includes at least one of an amine having a hydrophobic group and an organic silicon chemical compound.

The water repellent agent SMT may be diluted with a solvent having phase-solubility with respect to a hydrophilic organic solvent. For example, the solvent is an IPA or a propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate (PGMEA).

Inside the chamber210, the water repellent agent supply part260, the IPA supply part240, and the inert gas supply part250are disposed in this order from a side closer to the treatment tank230above the treatment tank230.

The third treatment device200may further include a liquid discharge part270. The liquid discharge part270discharges the stored liquid L in the treatment tank230. The inside of the treatment tank230can be made empty by the liquid discharge part270.

Next, with reference to (a) ofFIG.5toFIG.6, drying treatment in the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment will be described.FIG.6is a flowchart of drying treatment in the substrate treatment apparatus100.

As illustrated inFIG.6, in Step S202, the substrates W are immersed in a dIPA stored in the treatment tank230. In this case, the treatment tank230stores a dIPA. For example, the substrate holding part220moves vertically downward while holding the substrates W and causes the substrates W to be immersed in the dIPA. Alternatively, the substrate holding part220may move vertically downward while holding the substrates W and may change the stored liquid L to a dIPA in a state in which the substrates W are immersed in the stored liquid L in the treatment tank230. For example, in a state in which the substrates W are immersed in a rinse liquid (DIW as an example) serving as the stored liquid L in the treatment tank230, the liquid supply part232can supply an IPA to the treatment tank230so that the stored liquid L can be changed to a dIPA in a state in which the substrates W are immersed therein.

In Step S204, the substrates W are treated with the IPA. For example, after the substrate holding part220moves to the upper position while holding the substrates W, the IPA supply part240supplies vapor of the IPA to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be treated with the IPA. It is preferable that the substrate holding part220move to a position where the substrates W come into contact with a large amount of vapor of the IPA supplied from the IPA supply part240.

In Step S206, water-repellent treatment of the substrates W is performed by supplying vapor of the water repellent agent SMT to the substrates W. For example, in a state in which the substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position, the water repellent agent supply part260supplies vapor of the water repellent agent SMT to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be subjected to water-repellent treatment. The substrate holding part220may move such that the substrates W come into contact with a large amount of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT supplied from the water repellent agent supply part260at the upper position.

In Step S208, the substrates W are treated with the IPA. For example, the substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position. The IPA supply part240supplies vapor of the IPA to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be treated with the IPA. The substrate holding part220may move such that the substrates W come into contact with a large amount of vapor of the IPA supplied from the IPA supply part240at the upper position.

In Step S210, an inert gas is supplied to the substrates W. The substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position. The inert gas supply part250supplies the inert gas to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be subjected to drying treatment. The substrate holding part220may move such that the substrates W come into contact with a large amount of the inert gas supplied from the inert gas supply part250at the upper position.

According to the present embodiment, after the substrates W are immersed in the dIPA, the substrates W are treated with the IPA. Thereafter, water-repellent treatment of the substrates W is performed. In this manner, since the substrates W are immersed in the dIPA, even when patterns having a relatively high aspect ratio are formed on the substrates W, the surfaces of the substrates W can be sufficiently replaced with the IPA even at fine portions in the patterns of the substrates W, and the surfaces of the substrates W can be replaced with a water repellent agent thereafter. Typically, a water repellent agent is unlikely to have affinity with a rinse liquid (for example, water). However, since the stored liquid L is a dIPA, the water repellent agent can sufficiently infiltrate throughout the entire surfaces of the substrates W. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, collapse of the patterns of the substrates W can be favorably curbed.

Next, with reference to (a) ofFIG.5to (e) ofFIG.7, drying treatment in the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment will be described. (a) to (e) ofFIG.7are schematic views illustrating a flow of drying treatment in the substrate treatment apparatus100.

As illustrated in (a) ofFIG.7, the substrates W are immersed in a dIPA stored in the treatment tank230. In this specification, when the stored liquid L stored in the treatment tank230is a dIPA, the stored liquid L may be indicated as a stored liquid Ld.

For example, when the substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position of the chamber210, the stored liquid Ld is stored in the treatment tank230. Thereafter, the substrate holding part220receives the substrates W. Typically, the substrates W received by the substrate holding part220are subjected to rinse treatment with a rinse liquid (for example, DIW). Thereafter, the substrate holding part220moves downward from above the chamber210so that the substrates W are immersed in the stored liquid Ld stored in the treatment tank230.

While the substrates W are immersed in the stored liquid Ld which has been stored, the concentration of the stored liquid Ld may be increased. For example, the concentration of the stored liquid Ld can be increased by causing the liquid supply part232to further supply an IPA to the stored liquid Ld in the treatment tank230. For example, if the immersion time of the substrates W exceeds a threshold, the concentration of the stored liquid Ld may be higher than that when the immersion time is equal to or shorter than the threshold. Alternatively, the concentration of the stored liquid Ld may be continuously increased together with the immersion time of the substrates W.

As illustrated in (b) ofFIG.7, IPA treatment of the substrates W is performed by supplying vapor of an IPA to the substrates W. In detail, after the substrate holding part220moves to the upper position while holding the substrates W, the IPA supply part240supplies vapor of the IPA to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be treated with the IPA. Here, the stored liquid Ld in the treatment tank230is discharged.

As illustrated in (c) ofFIG.7, water-repellent treatment of the substrates W is performed by supplying vapor of the water repellent agent SMT to the substrates W. While the substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position, the water repellent agent supply part260supplies vapor of the water repellent agent SMT to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be subjected to water-repellent treatment.

As illustrated in (d) ofFIG.7, IPA treatment of the substrates W is performed by supplying vapor of an IPA to the substrates W. While the substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position, the IPA supply part240supplies vapor of the IPA to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be treated with the IPA.

As illustrated inFIG.7E, the inert gas is supplied to the substrates W. While the substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position, the inert gas supply part250supplies the inert gas to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be dried.

According to the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment, after the substrates W are immersed in the dIPA, the substrates W are subjected to IPA treatment. Thereafter, the water repellent agent SMT is supplied to the substrates W. For this reason, since the IPA can be caused to adhere to the entire surfaces of the substrates W before the water repellent agent SMT is supplied, the entire surfaces of the substrates W can be thoroughly replaced with the water repellent agent SMT by supplying the water repellent agent SMT. Therefore, while collapse of the patterns of the substrates W is curbed, a chemical solution and/or a rinse liquid which has adhered to the substrates W can be sufficiently dried.

In addition, as illustrated in (d) to (e) ofFIG.7, the substrate holding part220may move at the upper position while holding the substrates W in accordance with supply of vapor or gas from any of the IPA supply part240, the inert gas supply part250, and the water repellent agent supply part260. Accordingly, while the IPA supply part240, the inert gas supply part250, and the water repellent agent supply part260are fixedly disposed, the substrates W can be efficiently treated utilizing vapor or gas supplied from the IPA supply part240, the inert gas supply part250, and the water repellent agent supply part260.

Next, with reference toFIGS.8and9, the third treatment device200in the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment will be described.FIG.8is a schematic view of the third treatment device200.

Each of the substrates W has a pattern formation surface on which a pattern is formed. A pattern is formed on a surface of the substrate W through wet etching treatment. As described above with reference toFIG.1, in addition to the third treatment device200, the substrate treatment apparatus100includes the first treatment device140and the second treatment device150. For example, after the substrate W is etched by the first treatment device140, the substrate W is subjected to rinse treatment by the second treatment device150. Thereafter, the substrate W is conveyed to (carried into) the third treatment device200.

As illustrated inFIG.8, the third treatment device200includes the chamber210, the substrate holding part220, the treatment tank230, the liquid supply part232, the inert gas supply part250, the water repellent agent supply part260, and the liquid discharge part270. At least some of the substrate holding part220, the treatment tank230, the liquid supply part232, the IPA supply part240, the inert gas supply part250, the water repellent agent supply part260, and the liquid discharge part270are accommodated in the chamber210.

The chamber210has the main body part212and the cover214. The cover214covers an opening at an upper part of the main body part212. The cover214can be opened and closed with respect to the main body part212.

An opening-closing unit216opens and closes the cover214. That is, the opening-closing unit216switches the cover214between an open state and a closed state. When the cover214is opened and closed with respect to the main body part212, the opening at the upper part of the chamber210switches between a blocked state and a released state. The opening-closing unit216has a drive source and an opening-closing mechanism and opens and closes the cover214by means of the drive source driving the opening-closing mechanism. For example, the drive source includes a motor. For example, the opening-closing mechanism includes a rack-pinion mechanism.

The substrate holding part220has the main body plate222, the holding rods224, and the upward-downward movement unit226. The holding rods224are attached to the main body plate222.

The upward-downward movement unit226moves the main body plate222and the holding rods224upward and downward. When the upward-downward movement unit226moves the main body plate222and the holding rods224upward and downward, the substrates W held by the holding rods224move upward and downward. The upward-downward movement unit226has a drive source and an upward-downward movement mechanism and moves the substrate holding part220upward and downward by means of the drive source driving the upward-downward movement mechanism. For example, the drive source includes a motor. For example, the upward-downward movement mechanism includes a rack-pinion mechanism or a ball screw.

The upward-downward movement unit226moves the main body plate222and the holding rods224upward to a place above the chamber210when the substrates W are carried into the chamber210and when the substrates W are carried out of the chamber210. In addition, the upward-downward movement unit226moves the substrates W vertically downward together with the main body plate222and the holding rods224when the substrates W are immersed in the stored liquid L inside the treatment tank230. InFIG.8, the substrate holding part220and the substrates W which have moved to the lower position are indicated by the solid line, and the substrate holding part220and the substrates W which have moved to the upper position are indicated by the dotted line.

The control device290(a control part292) switches the cover214between an open state and a closed state by controlling the opening-closing unit216. Specifically, the control device290(the control part292) causes the cover214to be in an open state when the substrates W are carried into the chamber210and when the substrates W are carried out of the chamber210. When the cover214is in an open state, the opening at the upper part of the chamber210is in a released state so that the substrates W can be carried into the chamber210and the substrates W can be carried out of the chamber210. The control device290(the control part292) causes the cover214to be in a closed state at the time of treatment of the substrates W. When the cover214is in a closed state, the opening at the upper part of the chamber210is in a blocked state. As a result, the inside of the chamber210becomes a closed space. The substrates W are treated inside the closed space.

The treatment tank230stores the stored liquid L. The stored liquid L may be a dilute isopropyl alcohol (IPA). In addition, the stored liquid L may be a rinse liquid. In this manner, the treatment tank230stores a rinse liquid or a dilute IPA. A dilute IPA indicates a diluted IPA. For example, a rinse liquid is deionized water (DIW). In this case, a dilute IPA is an IPA diluted with DIW. In other words, a dilute IPA is a liquid mixture of an IPA and DIW.

The liquid supply part232supplies a stored liquid to the treatment tank230. Specifically, the liquid supply part232supplies at least one of a rinse liquid (DIW) and an IPA to the treatment tank230. The liquid supply part232has a nozzle232aand a nozzle232b. The nozzle232aand the nozzle232bare disposed inside the treatment tank230. The nozzle232aand the nozzle232bare positioned parallel to the horizontal direction. The nozzle232aand the nozzle232bspout at least one of a rinse liquid (DIW) and an IPA into the treatment tank230.

The IPA supply part240supplies vapor of the IPA to the inside of the chamber210. The IPA supply part240has a nozzle242aand a nozzle242b. The nozzle242aand the nozzle242bare disposed inside the chamber210and outside the treatment tank230. The nozzle242aand the nozzle242bare positioned parallel to the horizontal direction. The nozzle242aand the nozzle242bspout vapor of the IPA. The nozzle242aand the nozzle242bmay spout not only vapor of the IPA but also the inert gas.

The inert gas supply part250supplies the inert gas to the inside of the chamber210. The inert gas supply part250has a nozzle252a, a nozzle252b, a nozzle252c, and a nozzle252d. The nozzle252a, the nozzle252b, the nozzle252c, and the nozzle252dare disposed inside the chamber210and outside the treatment tank230. The nozzle252aand the nozzle252bare positioned parallel to the horizontal direction, and the nozzle252cand the nozzle252dare positioned parallel to the horizontal direction. The nozzle252a, the nozzle252b, the nozzle252c, and the nozzle252dspout the inert gas.

The water repellent agent supply part260supplies vapor of a water repellent agent to the inside of the chamber210. The water repellent agent supply part260has a nozzle262aand a nozzle262b. The nozzle262aand the nozzle262bare disposed inside the chamber210and outside the treatment tank230. The nozzle262aand the nozzle262bare positioned parallel to the horizontal direction. The nozzle262aand the nozzle262bspout vapor of a water repellent agent.

The liquid discharge part270discharges the stored liquid L in the treatment tank230. The inside of the treatment tank230can be made empty by the liquid discharge part270. In addition, the stored liquid L in the treatment tank230can be replaced by the liquid supply part232and the liquid discharge part270.

Subsequently, the third treatment device200will also be described with reference toFIG.9.FIG.9is a schematic view of the third treatment device200in the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.9, the third treatment device200further includes an inert gas supply source NGS; an IPA supply source IPS; a water repellent agent supply source SMS; a DIW supply source DS; a decompression part280; pipings230a,230c,240a,250a,250c,250s, and260a; valves230b,230d,240b,250b,250d,250t,260b, and270b; heaters240cand260c; a liquid discharge line270a; and a gas discharge line280a.

The DIW supply source DS supplies DIW. The IPA supply source IPS supplies an IPA. The inert gas supply source NGS supplies an inert gas. For example, the inert gas is nitrogen gas. The water repellent agent supply source SMS supplies the water repellent agent SMT.

The liquid supply part232has the piping230a, the nozzle232a, and the nozzle232b. The DIW is supplied to the piping230afrom the DIW supply source DS. The piping230acauses the DIW supplied from the DIW supply source DS to circulate to the nozzle232aand the nozzle232b.

The nozzle232aand the nozzle232bare hollow tubular members in which a plurality of spout holes is formed. In the present embodiment, the nozzle232aand the nozzle232bextend in the Y direction. The plurality of spout holes of the nozzle232ais formed at equal intervals in the Y direction. Similarly, the plurality of spout holes of the nozzle232bis formed at equal intervals in the Y direction.

If the DIW is supplied to the nozzle232avia the piping230a, the DIW is spouted into the treatment tank230through the plurality of spout holes of the nozzle232a. Similarly, if the DIW is supplied to the nozzle232bvia the piping230a, the DIW is spouted into the treatment tank230through the plurality of spout holes of the nozzle232b.

The valve230bis interposed in the piping230a. The valve230bis an opening-closing valve for opening and closing a flow channel of the piping230a. The valve230bcontrols circulation of the DIW flowing in the piping230a. The valve230balso functions as a regulating valve for regulating the flow rate of the DIW flowing in the piping230a. For example, the valve230bis an electromagnetic valve. The valve230bis controlled by the control device290(the control part292).

An IPA is supplied to the piping230cfrom the IPA supply source IPS. The piping230cis connected to the piping230a. Namely, the piping230ccauses the IPA to circulate to the piping230a.

The valve230dis interposed in the piping230c. The valve230dis an opening-closing valve for opening and closing a flow channel of the piping230c. Similar to the valve250b, the valve230dcontrols circulation of the IPA flowing in the piping230c. The valve230dalso functions as a regulating valve for regulating the flow rate of the IPA flowing in the piping230c. For example, the valve230dis an electromagnetic valve. The valve230dis controlled by the control device290(the control part292).

When the DIW is stored in the treatment tank230, the control device290(the control part292) opens the valve230band closes the valve230d. Accordingly, the DIW is spouted into the treatment tank230through the nozzle232aand the nozzle232b.

Meanwhile, when a dIPA is stored in the treatment tank230, the control device290(the control part292) opens the valve230band the valve230d. When the valve230band the valve230dare opened, the IPA flows into the piping230afrom the piping230c, and the IPA joins the DIW circulating in the piping230a, thereby generating a dIPA inside the piping230a. The dIPA is supplied to the nozzle232aand the nozzle232bvia the piping230a. As a result, the dIPA is spouted into the treatment tank230through the nozzle232aand the nozzle232b.

In addition, the control device290(the control part292) regulates opening degrees of the valve230band the valve230dsuch that the concentration of the IPA becomes a predetermined concentration in the dIPA. A predetermined concentration is within a range of 0.3% to less than 5%.

The IPA supply part240has the piping240a, the nozzle242a, the nozzle242b, and the heater240c. An IPA is supplied to the piping240afrom the IPA supply source IPS. The heater240cis interposed in the piping240a. The heater240cheats the IPA and gasifies the IPA. Namely, the heater240cgenerates vapor of the IPA. The piping240acauses vapor of the IPA to circulate to the nozzle242aand the nozzle242b.

The nozzle242aand the nozzle242bare disposed below the nozzle252aand the nozzle252band are disposed below the nozzle252cand the nozzle252d. The nozzle242aand the nozzle242bare hollow tubular members in which a plurality of spout holes is formed. In the present embodiment, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bextend in the Y direction. The plurality of spout holes of the nozzle242ais formed at equal intervals in the Y direction. Similarly, the plurality of spout holes of the nozzle242bis formed at equal intervals in the Y direction.

If vapor of the IPA is supplied to the nozzle242avia the piping240a, the vapor of the IPA is spouted into the chamber210through the plurality of spout holes of the nozzle242a. Similarly, if vapor of the IPA is supplied to the nozzle242bvia the piping240a, the vapor of the IPA is spouted into the chamber210through the plurality of spout holes of the nozzle242b.

The valve240bis interposed in the piping240a. The valve240bis an opening-closing valve for opening and closing a flow channel of the piping240a. The valve240bis provided on a downstream side of the heater240cwith respect to the piping240a. The valve240bcontrols circulation of vapor of the IPA flowing in the piping240a. The valve240balso functions as a regulating valve for regulating the flow rate of the vapor of the IPA flowing in the piping240a. For example, the valve240bis an electromagnetic valve. The valve240bis controlled by the control device290(the control part292).

The inert gas supply part250has the piping250a, the piping250c, the nozzle252a, the nozzle252b, the nozzle252c, and the nozzle252d. An inert gas is supplied to the piping250afrom the inert gas supply source NGS. The piping250acauses the inert gas supplied from the inert gas supply source NGS to circulate to the nozzle252aand the nozzle252b. In addition, the inert gas is supplied to the piping250cfrom the inert gas supply source NGS. The piping250ccauses the inert gas supplied from the inert gas supply source NGS to circulate to the nozzle252cand the nozzle252d.

The constitutions of the nozzle252a, the nozzle252b, the nozzle252c, and the nozzle252dare similar to those of the nozzle242aand the nozzle242b. The nozzle252a, the nozzle252b, the nozzle252c, and the nozzle252dspout the inert gas into the chamber210.

The valve250bis interposed in the piping250a. The valve250bis an opening-closing valve for opening and closing a flow channel of the piping250a. The valve250bcontrols circulation of the inert gas flowing in the piping250a. Specifically, when the valve250bis opened, the inert gas flows to the nozzle252aand the nozzle252bvia the piping250a. As a result, the inert gas is spouted through the nozzle252aand the nozzle252b. When the valve250bis closed, circulation of the inert gas is blocked, and the nozzle252aand the nozzle252bstop spouting of the inert gas.

The valve250balso functions as a regulating valve for regulating the flow rate of the inert gas flowing in the piping250a. For example, the valve250bis an electromagnetic valve. The valve250bis controlled by the control device290(the control part292).

The valve250dis interposed in the piping250c. The valve250dis an opening-closing valve for opening and closing a flow channel of the piping250c. The valve250dcontrols circulation of the inert gas flowing in the piping250c. Specifically, when the valve250dis opened, the inert gas flows to the nozzle252cand the nozzle252dvia the piping250c. As a result, the inert gas is spouted through the nozzle252cand the nozzle252d. When the valve250dis closed, circulation of the inert gas is blocked, and the nozzle252dand the nozzle252dstop spouting of the inert gas.

The valve250dalso functions as a regulating valve for regulating the flow rate of the inert gas flowing in the piping250c. For example, the valve250dis an electromagnetic valve. The valve250dis controlled by the control device290(the control part292).

In addition, the inert gas is supplied to the piping250sfrom the inert gas supply source NGS. The piping250sis connected to the piping240a. Namely, the piping250scauses the inert gas to circulate to the piping240a.

The valve250tis interposed in the piping250s. The valve250tis an opening-closing valve for opening and closing a flow channel of the piping250s. Similar to the valve250b, the valve250tcontrols circulation of the inert gas flowing in the piping250s. The valve250talso functions as a regulating valve for regulating the flow rate of the inert gas flowing in the piping250s. For example, the valve250tis an electromagnetic valve. The valve250tis controlled by the control device290(the control part292).

When vapor of the IPA is spouted through the nozzle242aand the nozzle242b, the control device290(the control part292) opens the valve240band closes the valve250t. Meanwhile, when the inert gas is spouted through the nozzle242aand the nozzle242b, the control device290(the control part292) closes the valve240band opens the valve250t. When the valve250tis opened, the inert gas flows into the piping240afrom the piping250s, and the inert gas is supplied to the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bvia the piping240a. As a result, the inert gas is spouted into the chamber210through the nozzle242aand the nozzle242b.

The water repellent agent supply part260has the piping260a, the nozzle262a, the nozzle262b, and the heater260c. The water repellent agent SMT is supplied to the piping260afrom the water repellent agent supply source SMS. The heater260cis interposed in the piping260a. The heater260cheats the water repellent agent SMT and gasifies the water repellent agent SMT. Namely, the heater260cgenerates vapor of the water repellent agent SMT. The piping260acauses vapor of the water repellent agent SMT to circulate to the nozzle262aand the nozzle262b.

The nozzle262aand the nozzle262bare disposed below the nozzle252cand the nozzle252d. The constitutions of the nozzle262aand the nozzle262bare similar to those of the nozzle242aand the nozzle242b. Similar to the nozzle242aand the nozzle242b, the nozzle262aand the nozzle262bspout vapor of the water repellent agent SMT to the inside of the chamber210.

The valve260bis interposed in the piping260a. The valve260bis an opening-closing valve for opening and closing a flow channel of the piping260a. The valve260bis provided on a downstream side of the heater260cwith respect to the piping260a. The valve260bcontrols circulation of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT flowing in the piping260a. The valve260balso functions as a regulating valve for regulating the flow rate of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT flowing in the piping260a. For example, the valve260bis an electromagnetic valve. The valve260bis controlled by the control device290(the control part292).

The liquid discharge line270ais connected to a bottom part of the treatment tank230. The valve270bis interposed in the liquid discharge line270a. The valve270bis an opening-closing valve for opening and closing a flow channel of the liquid discharge line270a. For example, the valve270bis an electromagnetic valve. The valve270bis controlled by the control device290(the control part292). When the stored liquid L is stored inside the treatment tank230, the control device290(the control part292) closes the valve270b. Meanwhile, when the stored liquid L is discharged from the treatment tank230, the control device290(the control part292) opens the valve270b. When the valve270bis opened, the stored liquid L stored in the treatment tank230discharged out of the chamber210from the treatment tank230via the liquid discharge line270a.

The decompression part280reduces the pressure inside the chamber210. Namely, the decompression part280decompresses the inside of the chamber210. For example, the decompression part280includes a gas discharge pump. For example, the gas discharge pump is a vacuum pump. The decompression part280is controlled by the control device290(the control part292). Specifically, the decompression part280is connected to the chamber210via the gas discharge line280a. The decompression part280discharges the gas inside the chamber210when the cover214is in a closed state and decompresses the inside of the chamber210to a pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure.

Next, with reference toFIGS.8to13, drying treatment performed by the third treatment device200in the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment will be described.FIGS.10to13are schematic views illustrating a flow of drying treatment performed by the third treatment device200.

As illustrated in (a) ofFIG.10, in Step S1, the third treatment device200stands by until the substrates W are fed to the chamber210. When it stands by for feeding of the substrates W, the treatment tank230stores DIW as a stored liquid. In this specification, when the stored liquid L stored in the treatment tank230is DIW, the stored liquid L may be indicated as a stored liquid La. At this time, the substrate holding part220is immersed in the stored liquid La.

It is preferable that the nozzle232aand the nozzle232bfurther supply DIW to the stored liquid La stored in the treatment tank230such that the stored liquid La inside the treatment tank230does not become stagnate. Accordingly, contamination of the treatment tank230due to dust or the like inside the chamber210can be curbed.

As illustrated in (b) ofFIG.10, in Step S2, before the substrates W are accommodated inside the chamber210, the substrate holding part220moves from the lower position to the upper position. In addition, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bstart supplying of the inert gas to inside the chamber210. The nozzle232aand the nozzle232bcontinuously supplies DIW to the treatment tank230.

As illustrated in (c) ofFIG.10, in Step S3, the nozzle232aand the nozzle232bstop supplying of DIW and discharge the stored liquid La in the treatment tank230. At this time, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinuously supply the inert gas to the inside of the chamber210.

As illustrated in (d) ofFIG.10, in Step S4, a dIPA is supplied to the treatment tank230. The nozzle232aand the nozzle232bsupply the dIPA to the treatment tank230so that the stored liquid Ld is stored in the treatment tank230. At this time, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinuously supply the inert gas to the inside of the chamber210.

As illustrated in (e) ofFIG.10, in Step S5, when the treatment tank230stores the stored liquid Ld, the nozzle232aand the nozzle232bstop supplying of the dIPA. At this time, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinuously supply the inert gas to the inside of the chamber210.

As illustrated in (f) ofFIG.10, in Step S6, the substrates W are immersed in the dIPA stored in the treatment tank230. The substrate holding part220receives the substrates W at the upper position and moves downward to the lower position while holding the substrates W. At this time, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinuously supply the inert gas to the inside of the chamber210. However, when the substrates W move downward from the upper position to the lower position, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bstop supplying of the inert gas only at a timing when the substrates W pass therethrough such that the substrates W are not directly exposed to the inert gas.

In the treatment tank230, the nozzle232aand the nozzle232bsupply the dIPA to the treatment tank230. Accordingly, an upflow is formed in the stored liquid Ld in the treatment tank230, and the substrates W immersed in the treatment tank230are efficiently treated with the dIPA.

As illustrated in (a) ofFIG.11, in Step S7, the nozzle232aand the nozzle232bstop supplying of the dIPA. At this time, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinuously supply the inert gas to the inside of the chamber210.

As illustrated in (b) ofFIG.11, in Step S8, while the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinuously supply the inert gas to the inside of the chamber210, the decompression part280starts decompression of the inside of the chamber210. At this time, the substrate holding part220remains at the lower position.

As illustrated in (c) ofFIG.11, in Step S9, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bstop supplying of the inert gas and start supplying of vapor of the IPA. At this time, the decompression part280continues decompression of the inside of the chamber210.

As illustrated in (d) ofFIG.11, in Step S10, the substrate holding part220moves from the lower position to the upper position, and the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinue supplying of vapor of the IPA. Accordingly, the substrates W are treated with the IPA. At this time, the decompression part280continues decompression of the inside of the chamber210.

As illustrated in (e) ofFIG.11, in Step S11, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinue supplying of vapor of the IPA. In addition, the liquid discharge part270discharges the stored liquid Ld in the treatment tank230. When the stored liquid Ld in the treatment tank230is discharged, the substrate holding part220moves downward to the lower position inside the treatment tank230. The decompression part280continues decompression of the inside of the chamber210.

As illustrated in (a) ofFIG.12, in Step S12, while the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinuously supply vapor of the IPA, the substrate holding part220moves from the lower position to the upper position. The substrate holding part220moves to a position where the substrates W face the nozzle242aand the nozzle242b. For example, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bface the centers of the substrates W. In addition, the nozzles262aand262bstart supplying of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT. The decompression part280continues decompression of the inside of the chamber210. The substrate holding part220may repeat vertical movement in the vertical direction at the upper position. The water repellent agent SMT can be uniformly applied to the substrates W by vertically moving the substrates W while vapor of the water repellent agent SMT is supplied. In addition, the substrates W may be exposed to the atmosphere of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT by stopping supplying of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT for a certain period of time. Accordingly, the time for the substrates W to be exposed to vapor of the water repellent agent SMT can be lengthened while the consumption of the water repellent agent SMT is curbed, and collapse of the patterns of the substrates W can be efficiently curbed.

As illustrated in (b) ofFIG.12, in Step S13, while the nozzle262aand the nozzle262bcontinuously supply vapor of the water repellent agent SMT, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bstop supplying of vapor of the IPA. The decompression part280continues decompression of the inside of the chamber210. The substrate holding part220moves to a position where lower ends of the substrates W face the nozzle262aand the nozzle262bat the upper position. The substrate holding part220may repeat vertical movement in the vertical direction at the upper position. In addition, the substrates W may be exposed to the atmosphere of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT by stopping supplying of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT for a certain period of time.

As illustrated in (c) ofFIG.12, in Step S14, while the nozzles262aand262bcontinuously supply vapor of the water repellent agent SMT, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bstart supplying of vapor of the IPA. The decompression part280continues decompression of the inside of the chamber210. The substrate holding part220is positioned at a position where the lower ends of the substrates W face the nozzle262aand the nozzle262bat the upper position. The substrate holding part220may repeat vertical movement in the vertical direction at the upper position. In addition, the substrates W may be exposed to the atmosphere of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT by stopping supplying of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT for a certain period of time.

As illustrated in (d) ofFIG.12, in Step S15, while the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinuously supply vapor of the IPA, the nozzle262aand the nozzle262bstop supplying of vapor of the water repellent agent SMT. The decompression part280continues decompression of the inside of the chamber210. The substrate holding part220moves to a position where the substrates W face the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bat the upper position. For example, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bface the centers of the substrates W. The substrate holding part220may repeat vertical movement in the vertical direction at the upper position.

As illustrated in (a) ofFIG.13, in Step S16, the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bstop supplying of vapor of the IPA and start supplying of the inert gas. The decompression part280continues decompression of the inside of the chamber210. The substrate holding part220remains at a position where the substrates W face the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bat the upper position.

As illustrated in (b) ofFIG.13, in Step S17, while the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinuously supply the inert gas, the nozzles252a,252b,252c, and252dstart supplying of the inert gas. The decompression part280continues decompression of the inside of the chamber210. The substrate holding part220remains at a position where the substrates W face the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bat the upper position.

As illustrated in (c) ofFIG.13, in Step S18, the nozzles242aand242band the nozzles252a,252b,252c, and252dcontinue supplying of the inert gas. The decompression part280stops decompression of the inside of the chamber210.

As illustrated in (d) ofFIG.13, in Step S19, while the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bcontinuously supply the inert gas, the nozzles252a,252b,252c, and252dstop supplying of the inert gas. The substrate holding part220remains at a position where the substrates W face the nozzle242aand the nozzle242bat the upper position.

As above, the third treatment device200performs drying treatment of the substrates W.

In the present embodiment, after the substrates W are immersed in a dIPA, IPA treatment of the substrates W is performed. Thereafter, the water repellent agent SMT is supplied. For this reason, the water repellent agent SMT can sufficiently infiltrate onto the surfaces of the substrates W, and collapse of the patterns in the substrates W can be curbed.

In the description described above with reference toFIGS.10to13, as illustrated in (d) ofFIG.10, when the stored liquid Ld is stored in the treatment tank230, after the stored liquid La which has been previously stored in the treatment tank230is discharged, a dIPA is supplied to the treatment tank230and the stored liquid Ld is stored in the treatment tank230, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The stored liquid Ld may be generated in the treatment tank230utilizing the stored liquid instead of discharging it. For example, when water (for example, DIW) is stored in the treatment tank230as the stored liquid L (that is, the treatment tank230stores the stored liquid La), the liquid supply part232may supply an IPA to the stored liquid La so as to generate the stored liquid Ld in the treatment tank230.

In addition, in the description described above with reference toFIGS.10to13, from Step S6illustrated in (f) ofFIG.10to Step S9illustrated in (c) ofFIG.11, while the substrates W are immersed in the stored liquid Ld, the concentration of the stored liquid Ld has been constant, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. While the substrates W are immersed in the stored liquid Ld, the concentration of the stored liquid Ld may be increased. For example, when the liquid supply part232further supplies an IPA to the stored liquid Ld in the treatment tank230, the concentration of the stored liquid Ld can be increased.

In the description described above with reference to (a) to (e) ofFIG.7, the substrates W are immersed in a dIPA before the water-repellent treatment, and vapor of an IPA liquid is spouted onto the substrates W after the water-repellent treatment, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The substrates W may be immersed in a dIPA after the water-repellent treatment.

Next, with reference toFIG.14, water-repellent treatment performed by the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment will be described. (a) to (f) ofFIG.14are schematic views illustrating a flow of water-repellent treatment performed by the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment. (a) to (c) and (e) to (f) ofFIGS.1414A to14C and14E to14Fare similar to (a) to (e) ofFIG.7, and duplicate description will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

As illustrated in (a) ofFIG.14, the substrates W are immersed in a dIPA stored in the treatment tank230. While the substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position, the stored liquid Ld is stored in the treatment tank230. Thereafter, the substrate holding part220receives the substrates W. Typically, the substrates W received by the substrate holding part220are subjected to rinse treatment with water (for example, DIW). Thereafter, the substrate holding part220moves downward from above the chamber210so that the substrates W are immersed in the stored liquid Ld stored in the treatment tank230.

As illustrated in (b) ofFIG.14, IPA treatment of the substrates W is performed by supplying vapor of an IPA to the substrates W. In detail, after the substrate holding part220moves the substrates W to the upper position, the IPA supply part240supplies vapor of the IPA to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be treated with the IPA. Here, the stored liquid Ld in the treatment tank230is discharged.

As illustrated in (c) ofFIG.14, water-repellent treatment of the substrates W is performed by supplying vapor of the water repellent agent SMT to the substrates W. While the substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position, the water repellent agent supply part260supplies vapor of the water repellent agent SMT to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be subjected to water-repellent treatment.

As illustrated in (d) ofFIG.14, the substrates W are immersed in the dIPA stored in the treatment tank230again. While the substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position, the stored liquid Ld is stored in the treatment tank230. Thereafter, the substrate holding part220moves downward from above the chamber210so that the substrates W are immersed in the stored liquid Ld stored in the treatment tank230.

As illustrated in (e) ofFIG.14, IPA treatment of the substrates W is performed by supplying vapor of an IPA to the substrates W. The substrate holding part220moves from the lower position to the upper position. The IPA supply part240supplies vapor of the IPA to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be treated with the IPA.

As illustrated in (f) ofFIG.14, an inert gas is supplied to the substrates W. While the substrate holding part220is positioned at the upper position, the inert gas supply part250supplies the inert gas to the substrates W. Accordingly, the substrates W can be dried.

According to the present embodiment, after the substrates W are subjected to water-repellent treatment, the substrates W are immersed in a dIPA. For this reason, cleanness of the substrates W can be improved.

In the description described above with reference toFIG.14, after the stored liquid Ld having the substrates W immersed therein is temporarily discharged before the water-repellent treatment, a new stored liquid Ld is stored in the treatment tank230after the water-repellent treatment, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The substrates W may be immersed after the water-repellent treatment without temporarily discharging the stored liquid Ld having the substrates W immersed therein before the water-repellent treatment.

In the substrate treatment apparatus100described above with reference toFIG.1, the treatment part130has each one of the first treatment device140, the second treatment device150, and the third treatment device200, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. In the treatment part130, any of the first treatment device140, the second treatment device150, and the third treatment device200may be two or more.

Next, the substrate treatment apparatus100of the present embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.15.FIG.15is a schematic view of the substrate treatment apparatus100. The substrate treatment apparatus100inFIG.15has a constitution similar to that of the substrate treatment apparatus100described above with reference toFIG.1except that the treatment part130has three sets of the first treatment device140and the second treatment device150and two third treatment devices200and further includes a conveyance device LF, and duplicate description will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

As illustrated inFIG.15, in the substrate treatment apparatus100, the treatment part130has a first treatment unit130a, a second treatment unit130b, a third treatment unit130c, and a drying treatment unit130d. Each of the first treatment unit130a, the second treatment unit130b, and the third treatment unit130chas the first treatment device140, the second treatment device150, and the conveyance device LF. The drying treatment unit130dhas two third treatment devices200aand200b.

The second conveyance device WTR can move from the third treatment device200ato the third treatment unit130cin the longitudinal direction of the substrate treatment apparatus100. Therefore, the second conveyance device WTR carries in and carries out the lot of the substrates W with respect to the third treatment devices200aand200b, a first treatment device140aand a second treatment device150aof the first treatment unit130a, a first treatment device140band a second treatment device150bof the second treatment unit130b, and a first treatment device140cand a second treatment device150cof the third treatment unit130c.

In the drying treatment unit130d, the third treatment devices200aand200bstore lots of a plurality of substrates W and perform drying treatment with respect to the plurality of substrates W.

The first treatment unit130ais disposed adjacent to the drying treatment unit130d. In the first treatment unit130a, each of the first treatment device140aand the second treatment device150aincludes a tank (not illustrated). Further, the first treatment device140acauses the substrates W to be immersed in a chemical solution stored in the tank and performs treatment with respect to a plurality of substrates W with the chemical solution. Alternatively, the second treatment device150acauses the substrates W to be immersed in a rinse liquid stored in the tank and performs cleaning treatment with respect to a plurality of substrates W with a rinse liquid.

In addition, in the first treatment unit130a, the conveyance device LF performs delivering of a lot with respect to the second conveyance device WTR in addition to conveyance of a lot inside the first treatment unit130a. In addition, the conveyance device LF causes each of the substrates W in the lot to be immersed in the tanks of the first treatment device140aand the second treatment device150aor brings up each of the substrates W in the lot from the tanks of the first treatment device140aand the second treatment device150a.

The first treatment device140band the second treatment device150bof the second treatment unit130badjacent to the first treatment unit130a, and the first treatment device140cand the second treatment device150cof the third treatment unit130cadjacent to the second treatment unit130bhave constitutions similar to those of the first treatment device140aand the second treatment device150aof the first treatment unit130a.

According to the present embodiment, since the substrate treatment apparatus100has three first treatment devices140ato140c, three second treatment devices150ato150c, and two third treatment devices200aand200b, lots of the substrates W are sequentially treated so that a number of substrates W can be efficiently treated.

In the description described above with reference toFIGS.1to15, chemical solution treatment, rinse treatment, and drying treatment are respectively performed by the first treatment device140, the second treatment device150, and the third treatment device200, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. Any two processes of treatment of the chemical solution treatment, rinse treatment, and drying treatment may be performed by the same treatment device.

For example, the treatment part130may have the first treatment device140and the third treatment device200without having the second treatment device150. In this case, after the chemical solution treatment of the substrates W is performed by the first treatment device140, the substrates W may be conveyed to the third treatment device200and may be subjected to rinse treatment with DIW stored in the treatment tank230inside the third treatment device200. As an example, thereafter, in a state in which the substrates W are brought upward above the chamber210from the treatment tank230, the stored liquid inside the treatment tank230may be changed to a dIPA. Alternatively, when the liquid supply part232supplies an IPA to the treatment tank230storing DIW, a dIPA may be generated in the treatment tank230.

Moreover, in the description described above with reference toFIGS.1to15, as described above particularly with reference toFIG.6to (e) ofFIG.7, the third treatment device200performs IPA treatment, water-repellent treatment, IPA treatment, and inert gas supply treatment in addition to dIPA immersion, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. Any treatment of IPA treatment, water-repellent treatment, IPA treatment, and inert gas supply treatment may be performed by a device other than the third treatment device200.

The disclosure provides a substrate treatment method including a rinsing step of performing treatment of a substrate with a rinse liquid, an immersing step of immersing the substrate in a diluted isopropyl alcohol stored in a treatment tank after the rinsing step, a first isopropyl alcohol treatment step of performing treatment of the substrate with an isopropyl alcohol after the immersing step, and a water-repellent treatment step of performing water-repellent treatment of the substrate after the first isopropyl alcohol treatment step.

In a certain embodiment, in the immersing step, a concentration of the diluted isopropyl alcohol increases in accordance with a time of immersion of the substrate.

In a certain embodiment, the rinsing step is performed by a rinse treatment device. The immersing step is performed by a drying treatment device. The substrate treatment method further includes a conveying step of conveying the substrate from the rinse treatment device to the drying treatment device after the rinsing step and before the immersing step.

In a certain embodiment, the substrate treatment method further includes a step of storing the diluted isopropyl alcohol in the treatment tank in a state in which an inert gas is supplied to a chamber accommodating the treatment tank before the immersing step.

In a certain embodiment, the substrate treatment method further includes a second isopropyl alcohol treatment step of performing treatment of the substrate with an isopropyl alcohol after the water-repellent treatment step, and an inert gas supplying step of supplying an inert gas to the substrate after the second isopropyl alcohol treatment step.

In a certain embodiment, the substrate treatment method further includes an immersing step of immersing the substrate in a diluted isopropyl alcohol stored in the treatment tank after the water-repellent treatment step and before the second isopropyl alcohol treatment step.

The disclosure provides a substrate treatment apparatus including a chamber; a treatment tank that is disposed inside the chamber and stores a stored liquid; a substrate holding part that holds a substrate and is able to move such that the substrate is immersed in the stored liquid in the treatment tank; a liquid supply part that supplies a diluted isopropyl alcohol as the stored liquid to the treatment tank; an isopropyl alcohol supply part that supplies vapor of an isopropyl alcohol to the inside of the chamber; a water repellent agent supply part that supplies vapor of a water repellent agent to the inside of the chamber; and a control part that controls the substrate holding part, the liquid supply part, the isopropyl alcohol supply part, and the water repellent agent supply part. The control part controls the substrate holding part, the isopropyl alcohol supply part, and the water repellent agent supply part such that after a substrate which has been treated with a rinse liquid is immersed in a diluted isopropyl alcohol stored in the treatment tank, vapor of an isopropyl alcohol is supplied to the substrate, and vapor of the water repellent agent is supplied to the substrate thereafter.

In a certain embodiment, the control part controls the liquid supply part such that a concentration of the diluted isopropyl alcohol increases in accordance with a time of immersion of the substrate in the diluted isopropyl alcohol in the treatment tank.

In a certain embodiment, the substrate treatment apparatus further includes a drying treatment device that includes the chamber, the treatment tank, the substrate holding part, the isopropyl alcohol supply part, and the water repellent agent supply part; a rinse treatment device that performs treatment of the substrate with the rinse liquid; and a conveyance device that conveys a substrate which has been treated with the rinse liquid by the rinse treatment device to the drying treatment device.

In a certain embodiment, the substrate treatment apparatus further includes an inert gas supply part that supplies vapor of an inert gas to the inside of the chamber. The control part controls the liquid supply part and the inert gas supply part such that the diluted isopropyl alcohol is supplied to the treatment tank in a state in which an inert gas is supplied to the chamber.

In a certain embodiment, the control part controls the isopropyl alcohol supply part and the inert gas supply part such that after the water repellent agent is supplied to the substrate, vapor of an isopropyl alcohol is supplied to the substrate, and an inert gas is supplied to the substrate thereafter.

In a certain embodiment, the control part controls the substrate holding part such that the substrate is immersed in a diluted isopropyl alcohol stored in the treatment tank after the water repellent agent is supplied to the substrate and before vapor of the isopropyl alcohol is supplied to the substrate.

Hereinabove, the present embodiment has been described with reference to the drawings. However, the disclosure is not limited to the foregoing embodiment and can be performed in various aspects within a range not departing from the gist thereof. In addition, various embodiments can be formed by suitably combining a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the foregoing embodiment. For example, some constituent elements may be deleted from all of the constituent elements described in the embodiment. Moreover, constituent elements in different embodiments may be suitably combined. The drawings are schematically illustrated centering on each of the constituent elements in order to facilitate the understanding, and a thickness, a length, a number, an interval, and the like of each of the illustrated constituent elements may differ from actual values for the sake of convenience of preparing the drawings. In addition, a material, a shape, a dimension, and the like of each of the constituent elements described in the foregoing embodiment are examples, which are not particularly limited, and various changes can be made within a range not practically departing from the effects of the present embodiment.