Patent ID: 12255082

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, a mode(s) (that will be described as “an embodiment(s)” below) for implementing a substrate processing method according to the present disclosure will be explained in detail with reference to the drawing(s). Additionally, the present disclosure is not limited by such an embodiment(s). Furthermore, it is possible to combine respective embodiments appropriately unless process contents thereof are inconsistent. Furthermore, an identical site in each/respective embodiment(s) as provided below will be provided with an identical sign so as to omit a redundant explanation(s) thereof.

Furthermore, although an expression of “constant”, “orthogonal”, “perpendicular”, or “parallel” may be used in an embodiment(s) as illustrated below, such an expression does not have to be strictly “constant”, “orthogonal”, “perpendicular”, or “parallel”. That is, each expression as described above tolerates a deviation in, for example, manufacturing accuracy, installation accuracy, etc.

Furthermore, in each drawing that will be referred to below, a direction(s) of an X-axis, a direction(s) of a Y-axis, and a direction(s) of a Z-axis that are orthogonal to one another are defined for providing an understandable explanation(s), and an orthogonal coordinate system where a positive direction of such a Z-axis is provided as a vertically upward direction may be illustrated therein.

Configuration of Substrate Processing Apparatus

First, a configuration of a substrate processing apparatus according to an embodiment will be explained with reference toFIG.1.FIG.1is a schematic cross-sectional view of a substrate processing apparatus according to an embodiment.

A substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment as illustrated inFIG.1collectively executes a drying process for a plurality of semiconductor substrates (that will be described as substrates W below) in a wet state thereof after a liquid process thereof. A liquid process is not particularly limited, and is, for example, an etching process, a cleaning process, etc.

A pattern is formed on a surface of each substrate W where such a pattern may be collapsed by surface tension of a liquid that penetrates between patterns in a case where simple drying thereof is executed. Hence, the substrate processing apparatus100causes a vapor of an organic solvent to contact a substrate after a liquid process thereof so as to replace a processing liquid on such a substrate with a drying liquid, and subsequently, removes such as organic solvent from such a substrate by volatilization thereof, etc. Thereby, it is possible for the substrate processing apparatus100to dry a substrate while collapse of a pattern is prevented or reduced.

Herein, an inventor(s) of the present application has/have found that a correlation is present between a particle(s) on a substrate and collapse of a pattern as a result of an active study thereof. Specifically, such an inventor(s) of the present application has/have provided a substrate with a gradient of an amount of a particle(s) along a radial direction of such a substrate, and has/have measured a number of a collapsed pattern(s) along such a radial direction of such a substrate (that is, along such a gradient of an amount of a particle(s)). As a result, such an inventor(s) of the present application has/have found that a number of a collapsed pattern(s) is increased with increasing an amount of a particle(s). Thus, such an inventor(s) of the present application has/have found that a particle(s) on a substrate is/are one of factors that cause collapse of a pattern(s).

For example, a particle(s) that is/are attached to an inside of a chamber where a drying process for a substrate is executed is/are transferred to such a substrate, so that attachment of a particle(s) to a substrate is caused. Hence, the substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment is provided with a mechanism that cleans an inside of a chamber so as to prevent or reduce particle contamination in such a chamber, and thereby, attain further prevention or reduction of collapse of a pattern(s) on a substrate.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the substrate processing apparatus100includes a chamber1and a holding unit2. Furthermore, the substrate processing apparatus100includes a plurality of rinse nozzles3, a plurality of hydrophobizing agent nozzles4, a plurality of first organic solvent nozzles5, a plurality of second organic solvent nozzles6, and at least one third organic solvent nozzle7. Furthermore, the substrate processing apparatus100includes a control device8.

Chamber1

The chamber1includes a processing tank11and a lid body12. The processing tank11is a container with a top that is opened and is capable of accommodating a plurality of substrates W that are arranged in a perpendicular attitude (a vertically oriented state) thereof. The processing tank11is capable of storing a rinse liquid that is supplied from a rinse nozzle3as described later. A rinse liquid is, for example, a deionized water (DIW). The lid body12is a member that covers a top of the processing tank11, and is configured to be capable of being lifted or lowered, together with the holding unit2as described later. The lid body12is configured to be capable of being lifted or lowered by a movement mechanism23as described later where it is possible to carry a plurality of substrates W in the chamber1or carry out them from the chamber1, by lifting the lid body12.

The lid body12is placed on a top of the processing tank11, so that a gastight space13that is capable of accommodating a plurality of substrates W is formed inside the chamber1. Additionally, the chamber1may have a seal member14such as an O-ring between the processing tank11and the lid body12. As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to maintain gastightness of the gastight space13.

The gastight space13has a storage area131where a DIW that is supplied from a rinse nozzle3as described later is stored, and a drying area132that is located above such a storage area131. Specifically, a water level L is provided as a water level where it is possible to dip a whole of a plurality of substrates W that are lowered to a lowest position where they are capable of being moved by the holding unit2in the gastight space13and it does not contact such a plurality of substrates W that are lifted to a highest position where they are capable of being moved by the holding unit2in the gastight space13. In such a case, the storage area131is an area below a water level L in the gastight space13. Furthermore, the drying area132is an area above a water level L in the gastight space13. Additionally, a third organic solvent nozzle7as described later is arranged at a position slightly above such a water level L. Hence, a definition may be provided in such a manner that the storage area131is an area below a third organic solvent nozzle7as described later and the drying area132is an area above such a third organic solvent nozzle7.

A drain port15for discharging a DIW from the processing tank11is provided on a bottom wall of the processing tank11. A drain route151is connected to the drain port15. A valve152that opens or closes the drain route151is provided on a halfway part of the drain route151. The valve152is electrically connected to a controller81as described later and is controlled so as to be opened or closed by the controller81.

Furthermore, a plurality of exhaust ports16that discharge a gas in the gastight space13are provided on a side wall of the processing tank11. An exhaust port16is connected to a non-illustrated exhaust mechanism such as a vacuum pump through an exhaust route161. An atmosphere in the gastight space13is discharged to an outside thereof through the exhaust port16and the exhaust route161by such an exhaust mechanism.

The plurality of exhaust port16are arranged above a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4as described later. Furthermore, the plurality of exhaust port16are arranged below a second organic solvent nozzle6as described later. As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to discharge a vapor that fills the drying area132(a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent and a vapor of an organic solvent) efficiently.

Holding Unit2

The holding unit2includes a holding body21, a shaft22that supports the holding body21, and a movement mechanism23that lifts or lowers the shaft22. The holding body21holds a plurality of substrates W in a perpendicular attitude thereof. Furthermore, the holding body21holds a plurality of substrates W in a state where they are arranged at a regular interval(s) in a horizontal direction (herein, a direction of a Y-axis). The shaft22extends along a vertical direction (herein, a direction of a Z-axis) and supports the holding body21on a bottom thereof. The shaft22is inserted through a non-illustrated opening that is provided on a top of the lid body12so as to be capable of being slid therein.

The movement mechanism23includes, for example, a motor, a ball screw, a cylinder, etc., and is connected to the shaft22of the holding unit2so as to lift or lower the shaft22. The shaft22is lifted or lowered by the movement mechanism23, so that the holding body21that is supported by the shaft22is lifted or lowered. Thereby, it is possible for the movement mechanism23to lift or lower a plurality of substrates W that are held by the holding body21, between the storage area131and the drying area132. The movement mechanism23is electrically connected to the controller81of the control device8, and is controlled by the controller81.

Various Types of Nozzles

The plurality of rinse nozzle3are arranged in the storage area131. Specifically, the plurality of rinse nozzle3are provided on a bottom part of the processing tank11. A rinse liquid supply source32is connected to a rinse nozzle3through a supply route31. The rinse liquid supply source32supplies a DIW to two rinse nozzles3.

A valve34and a flow controller35are provided on the supply route31. The valve34opens or closes the supply route31. The flow controller35controls a flow of a processing liquid that flows through the supply route31. The valve34and the flow controller35are electrically connected to the controller81of the control device8, and is controlled by the controller81.

The plurality of hydrophobizing agent nozzles4, the plurality of first organic solvent nozzles5, the plurality of second organic solvent nozzles6, and the third organic solvent nozzle7are arranged in the drying area132. Specifically, these are arranged on both side walls of the chamber1in the drying area132.

These are arranged in order of a third organic solvent nozzle7, a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4, a first organic solvent nozzle5, and a second organic solvent nozzle6from a bottom to a top of the drying area132.

A hydrophobizing agent nozzle4supplies a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent to the drying area132. Specifically, a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4discharges a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent horizontally from a vicinity of a side wall of the chamber1in the drying area132to an inside of the drying area132. Additionally, a supply system for a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent will be described later.

A first organic solvent nozzle5is arranged above a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4. A first organic solvent nozzle5supplies a liquid of an organic solvent from the drying area132to the storage area131. Specifically, a first organic solvent nozzle5is a spray nozzle so as to spray a liquid of an organic solvent in a conical form or a fan-like form. The plurality of first organic solvent nozzles5are arranged along an arrangement direction of a plurality of substrates W (a direction of a Y-axis). Thereby, it is possible for the plurality of first organic solvent nozzles5to supply a liquid of an organic solvent to whole surface of a plurality of substrates W efficiently.

An organic solvent supply source52is connected to a first organic solvent nozzle5through a supply route51. The organic solvent supply source52supplies a liquid of an organic solvent to the plurality of first organic solvent nozzles5. In an embodiment, the organic solvent supply source52supplies a liquid of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to a first organic solvent nozzle5. Hereinafter, a liquid of IPA will be called an “IPA liquid”.

A valve54and a flow controller55are provided on the supply route51. The valve54opens or closes the supply route51. The flow controller55controls a flow of an IPA liquid that flows through the supply route51. The valve54and the flow controller55are electrically connected to the controller81of the control device8, and is controlled by the controller81.

A second organic solvent nozzle6is arranged above a first organic solvent nozzle5. A second organic solvent nozzle6supplies a vapor of an organic solvent to the drying area132. Specifically, a second organic solvent nozzle6discharges a vapor of an organic solvent upward or obliquely upward from a vicinity of a side wall of the chamber1in the drying area132to a top of the drying area132, that is, the lid body12. Additionally,FIG.1illustrates an example of a case where a second organic solvent nozzle6discharges a vapor of an organic solvent obliquely upward. Additionally, a supply system for a vapor of an organic solvent will be described later.

A third organic solvent nozzle7is arranged below a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4. Specifically, a third organic solvent nozzle7is arranged at a position that is slightly higher than a liquid level (a water level L) of a DIW that is stored in the storage area131. A third organic solvent nozzle7supplies a liquid of an organic solvent to a liquid level of a DIW that is stored in the storage area131. Thereby, a third organic solvent nozzle7forms a liquid film of an organic solvent on a liquid level of a DIW that is stored in the storage area131.

An organic solvent supply source72is connected to a third organic solvent nozzle7through a supply route71. The organic solvent supply source72supplies a liquid of an organic solvent to a third organic solvent nozzle7. In an embodiment, the organic solvent supply source72supplies an IPA liquid to a third organic solvent nozzle7.

A valve74and a flow controller75are provided on the supply route71. The valve74opens or closes the supply route71. The flow controller75controls a flow of an IPA liquid that flows through the supply route71. The valve74and the flow controller75are electrically connected to the controller81of the control device8, and is controlled by the controller81.

Control Device8

The control device8is, for example, a computer, and includes the controller81and a storage82. The storage82is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM and/or a flash memory (Flash Memory) or a storage device such as a hard disk and/or an optical disk, and stores a program that controls various types of processes that are executed by the substrate processing apparatus100. The controller81includes a microcomputer that has a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a Read Only Memory (ROM), a Random Access Memory (RAM), an input/output port, etc., and/or various types of circuits, and reads and executes a program that is stored in the storage82so as to control an operation of the substrate processing apparatus100.

Additionally, such a program may be recorded in a computer-readable storage medium or may be installed from such a storage medium into the storage82of the control device8. A computer-readable storage medium is, for example, a hard disk (HD), a flexible disk (FD), a compact disk (CD), a magneto-optical disk (MO), a memory card, etc.

Supply System for Hydrophobizing Agent Nozzle4and Second Organic Solvent Nozzle6

FIG.2is a schematic side view that illustrates a configuration of a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4and a second organic solvent nozzle6according to an embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.2, a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4includes a body unit41with an elongated cylindrical shape that extends along an arrangement direction of a plurality of substrates W (a direction of a Y-axis) and a plurality of discharge ports42that are formed on such a body unit41at an interval(s) along such an arrangement direction of such a plurality of substrates. For a discharge port42, a nozzle chip for spray that sprays a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent in a form of a mist, etc., as well as a simple opening, may be used. Furthermore, a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4may have a discharge port with a slit shape that extends along an arrangement direction of a plurality of substrates W, instead of the plurality of discharge ports42.

Similarly, a second organic solvent nozzle6includes a body unit61with an elongated cylindrical shape that extends along an arrangement direction of a plurality of substrates W (a direction of a Y-axis) and a plurality of discharge ports62that are formed on such a body unit61at an interval(s) along such an arrangement direction of such a plurality of substrates. For a discharge port62, a nozzle chip for spray that sprays a vapor of an organic solvent in a form of a mist, etc., as well as a simple opening, may be used. Furthermore, a second organic solvent nozzle6may have a discharge port with a slit shape that extends along an arrangement direction of a plurality of substrates W, instead of the plurality of discharge ports62.

A hydrophobizing agent nozzle4is connected to a vapor supply system45through a supply route46(an example of a hydrophobizing agent supply route). The vapor supply system45includes a hydrophobizing agent supply source451, a gas supply source452, valves453,454, a heating unit455, and a flow controller456. The hydrophobizing agent supply source451supplies a hydrophobizing agent in a liquid state thereof and the gas supply source452supplies an N2(nitrogen) gas (an example of a drying gas) that is an inert gas.

Herein, a hydrophobizing agent is provided by, for example, diluting a hydrophobizing agent for hydrophobizing a surface of a substrate W with a thinner by a predetermined concentration. For a hydrophobizing agent that is a raw material, it is possible to use, for example, a silylation agent or a silane coupling agent, etc.

Specifically, it is possible to use, for example, (trimethylsilyl)dimethylamine (TMSDMA), (dimethylsilyl)dimethylamine (DMSDMA), (trimethylsilyl)diethylamine (TMSDEA), hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS), etc., as a hydrophobizing agent that is a raw material.

Furthermore, for a thinner, it is possible to use an ether-type solvent, an organic solvent that belongs to a ketone, etc. Specifically, it is possible to use, for example, propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate (PGMEA), cyclohexanone, hydrofluoroether (HFE), etc., as a thinner.

The hydrophobizing agent supply source451is connected to the heating unit455through a valve453and the gas supply source452is connected to the heating unit455through a valve454. The valves453,454are electrically connected to the controller81and are controlled so as to be opened or closed by the controller81.

In a case where both of the valves453,454are opened, a mixed fluid of a liquid of a hydrophobizing agent that is supplied from the hydrophobizing agent supply source451and an N2gas that is supplied from the gas supply source452is supplied to the heating unit455. The heating unit455heats such a mixed fluid so as to generate a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent (that will be called a “hydrophobizing agent vapor” below). Additionally, a non-illustrated two-fluid nozzle is provided at a later stage of the valve453and a mixed fluid that is provided as a mist by such a two-fluid nozzle is supplied to the heating unit455.

On the other hand, in a case where only the valve454is opened, an N2gas is supplied from the gas supply source452to the heating unit455. In such a case, the heating unit455heats an N2gas so as to generate a hot N2gas. The heating unit455is connected to a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4through the supply route46, so as to supply a hydrophobizing agent vapor or a hot N2gas to such a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4.

The flow controller456controls a flow of a gas that is supplied to the heating unit455. For example, the flow controller456is configured to include a flow meter, a constant flow valve, an electropneumatic regulator, etc., and controls a pressure of a gas (an N2gas) that is supplied to such an electropneumatic regulator, etc., so that it is possible to control a flow of a gas that that is supplied to the heating unit455. The flow controller456is electrically connected to the controller81, and is controlled by the controller81.

A second organic solvent nozzle6is connected to a vapor supply system65through a supply route66(an example of a second organic solvent supply route). The vapor supply system65includes an organic solvent supply source651, a gas supply source652, valves653,654, a heating unit655, and a flow controller656. The organic solvent supply source651supplies a liquid of an organic solvent and the gas supply source652supplies an N2gas that is an inert gas. In an embodiment, the organic solvent supply source651supplies an IPA liquid.

The organic solvent supply source651is connected to the heating unit655through a valve653and the gas supply source652is connected to the heating unit655through a valve654. The valves653,654are electrically connected to the controller81, and are controlled so as to be opened or closed by the controller81.

In a case where both of the valves653,654are opened, a mixed fluid of an IPA liquid that is supplied from the organic solvent supply source651and an N2gas that is supplied from the gas supply source652is supplied to the heating unit655. The heating unit655heats such a mixed fluid so as to generate an IPA vapor. Additionally, a non-illustrated two-fluid nozzle is provided at a later stage of the valve653and a mixed fluid that is provided as a mist by such a two-fluid nozzle is supplied to the heating unit655.

On the other hand, in a case where only the valve654is opened, an N2gas is supplied from the gas supply source652to the heating unit655. In such a case, the heating unit655heats an N2gas so as to generate a hot N2gas. The heating unit655is connected to a second organic solvent nozzle6through the supply route66, so as to supply an IPA vapor or a hot N2gas to such a second organic solvent nozzle6.

The flow controller656controls a flow of a gas that is supplied to the heating unit655. For example, the flow controller656is configured to include a flow meter, a constant flow valve, an electropneumatic regulator, etc., and controls a pressure of a gas (an N2gas) that is supplied to such an electropneumatic regulator, etc., so that it is possible to control a flow of a gas that that is supplied to the heating unit655. The flow controller656is electrically connected to the controller81, and is controlled by the controller81.

A hydrophobizing agent nozzle4discharges a hydrophobizing agent vapor or a hot N2gas to a plurality of substrates W horizontally. Furthermore, a second organic solvent nozzle6discharges an IPA vapor or a hot N2gas to a plurality of substrates W upward or obliquely upward.

Specific Operation of Substrate Processing Apparatus

Next, a specific operation of a substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment will be explained with reference toFIG.3toFIG.17.FIG.3is a flowchart that illustrates an example of a procedure of a process that is executed by the substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment. Furthermore,FIG.4toFIG.17are diagrams that illustrate an example of an operation of the substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.3, in the substrate processing apparatus100, a pre-rinse process is executed (step S101). A pre-rinse process corresponds to an example of a first arrangement step. Specifically, a controller81opens a valve34so as to supply a DIW from a rinse liquid supply source32to a processing tank11of a chamber1and thereby store such a DIW in the processing tank11, before a plurality of substrates W are carried in the chamber1. Subsequently, the controller81controls a movement mechanism23so as to lower a lid body12and a shaft22. Thereby, a top opening of the processing tank11is plugged with the lid body12, so that a gastight space13is formed in the chamber1.

Subsequently, the controller81controls the movement mechanism23so as to lower the shaft22and thereby dip a plurality of substrates W in a DIW that is stored in the processing tank11(seeFIG.4). Thus, a plurality of substrates W are dipped in a DIW, so that it is possible to prevent or reduce drying of such a plurality of substrates W.

Subsequently, in the substrate processing apparatus100, a humidity conditioning process is executed (step S102). Specifically, the controller81controls a vapor supply system45so as to supply a hot N2gas from a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4to a drying area132(seeFIG.5). A hot N2gas is supplied to the drying area132, so that it is possible to reduce a humidity of the drying area132. Thereby, it is possible to prevent or reduce deactivation of a hydrophobizing agent.

Additionally, supply of a hot N2gas to the drying area132is started simultaneously with a pre-rinse process or before a start of such a pre-rinse process. Furthermore, supply of a hot N2gas from a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4to the drying area132is continued until just before a hydrophobizing process as described later is started.

Subsequently, in the substrate processing apparatus100, a first IPA replacement process where a DIW as a liquid on a plurality of substrates W is replaced with an IPA liquid is executed (step S103). A first IPA replacement process corresponds to an example of a first replacement step.

Specifically, the controller81opens a valve152(seeFIG.1) so as to discharge a DIW from the processing tank11and thereby expose a plurality of substrates W from such a DIW (seeFIG.6). Then, the controller81opens a valve54(seeFIG.1) so as to supply an IPA liquid from a first organic solvent nozzle5to a plurality of substrates W that are exposed from a DIW (seeFIG.7).

Subsequently, the controller81controls the movement mechanism23so as to cause a plurality of substrates W to reciprocate between a storage area131and the drying area132in a state where an IPA liquid is discharged from a plurality of second organic solvent nozzles6. Thus, a plurality of substrates W are moved, so that it is possible to supply IPA to a plurality of substrates W evenly.

A number of reciprocation of a plurality of substrates W may be one or may be two or more. Furthermore, movement of a plurality of substrates W may be one-time movement from the storage area131to the drying area132. Furthermore, the controller81does not have to move a plurality of substrates W.

A speed of movement in a case where a plurality of substrates W are moved may be, for example, a speed of 1 mm/sec or greater and 300 mm/sec or less. Thus, a plurality of substrates W are moved at a comparatively low speed, so that it is possible to supply an IPA liquid to such a plurality of substrates W more evenly.

As a first IPA replacement process is ended, the controller81closes the valve54so as to stop discharging of an IPA liquid from a first organic solvent nozzle5to the gastight space13.

Subsequently, the controller81controls the movement mechanism23so as to move a plurality of substrates W from the storage area131to the drying area132(step S104). A process at step S104corresponds to an example of a second arrangement step.

Additionally, in a case where a first IPA replacement process (step S103) is ended in a state where a plurality of substrates W are located in the drying area132, a process at step S104is omitted. In such a case, a first IPA replacement process corresponds to an example of a second arrangement step.

Subsequently, in the substrate processing apparatus100, a hydrophobizing process where IPA as a liquid on a plurality of substrates W is replaced with a hydrophobizing agent so as to hydrophobize such a plurality of substrates W is executed (step S105). A hydrophobizing process at step S105corresponds to an example of a second replacement step.

Specifically, the controller81opens the valve34so as to store a DIW in the processing tank11and controls the vapor supply system45so as to supply a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent from a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4to the drying area132(seeFIG.8). Supply of a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent thereto is also continued after storing of a DIW in the processing tank11is completed (seeFIG.9). A gas in the drying area132is discharged from an exhaust port16and a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent is supplied to the drying area132, so that an atmosphere in the drying area132is replaced with such a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent. Thereby, IPA on a plurality of substrates W is replaced with a hydrophobizing agent, so that a plurality of substrates W are hydrophobized.

In the substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment, a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent is supplied to the drying area132in a state where a DIW is stored in the processing tank11, in a hydrophobizing process, so that it is possible to prevent or reduce attaching of a residue of a hydrophobizing agent to an inner wall of the processing tank11.

Subsequently, the controller81controls the vapor supply system45so as to stop supply of a hydrophobizing agent vapor from a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4to the drying area132. Subsequently, the controller81opens the valve152so as to discharge a DIW from the processing tank11and opens the valve54so as to supply an IPA liquid from a second organic solvent nozzle6to the gastight space13(seeFIG.10). A second organic solvent nozzle6sprays an IPA liquid in a conical form or a fan-like form from the drying area132to the storage area131. Thereby, it is possible to remove a hydrophobizing agent that is attached to an inner wall of the chamber1, over a wide area.

Additionally, the controller81controls, after supply of a hydrophobizing agent vapor is stopped, a vapor supply system65so as to start supply of a hot N2gas from a second organic solvent nozzle6to the gastight space13.

Subsequently, the controller81controls the movement mechanism23so as to move a plurality of substrates W from the drying area132to the storage area131(step S106). A process at step S106corresponds to an example of a third arrangement step.

Subsequently, in the substrate processing apparatus100, a second IPA replacement process where a hydrophobizing agent on a plurality of substrates W is replaced with IPA is executed (step S107). A second IPA replacement process corresponds to an example of a third replacement step.

Specifically, the controller81supplies an IPA liquid from a second organic solvent nozzle6to the storage area131at step S105. Furthermore, the controller81arranges a plurality of substrates W in the storage area131at step S106. As a result, in a second IPA replacement process, an IPA liquid is supplied to a plurality of substrates W, so that a hydrophobizing agent on such a plurality of substrates W is rinsed with IPA.

Furthermore, the controller81controls the movement mechanism23so as to cause a plurality of substrates W to reciprocate between the storage area131and the drying area132(seeFIG.11) in a state where an IPA liquid is discharged from the plurality of second organic solvent nozzles6. Thus, a plurality of substrates W are moved, so that it is possible to supply IPA to such a plurality of substrates W evenly.

A number of reciprocation of a plurality of substrates W may be one or may be two or more. Furthermore, movement of a plurality of substrates W may be one-time movement from the storage area131to the drying area132. Furthermore, the controller81does not have to move a plurality of substrates W.

A speed of movement in a case where a plurality of substrates W are moved may be, for example, a speed of 1 mm/sec or greater and 300 mm/sec or less. Thus, a plurality of substrates W are moved at a comparatively low speed, so that it is possible to supply an IPA liquid to such a plurality of substrates W more evenly.

The controller81stops movement of a plurality of substrates W that is executed by the movement mechanism23, in a state where such a plurality of substrates W are located in the storage area131. Furthermore, the controller81opens the valve34so as to store a DIW in the processing tank11while supply of an IPA liquid from a second organic solvent nozzle6to the gastight space13is continued. Thereby, a plurality of substrates W are dipped in a DIW, so that IPA that is attached to such a plurality of substrates W is rinsed with such a DIW (seeFIG.12).

Subsequently, in the substrate processing apparatus100, a chamber cleaning process where a hydrophobizing agent that is attached to an inner wall of the chamber1is removed by IPA is executed (step S108).

Specifically, the controller81controls the vapor supply system65so as to supply an IPA vapor from a second organic solvent nozzle6to the gastight space13(the drying area132) (seeFIG.13). A gas in the drying area132is discharged from the exhaust port16and an IPA vapor is supplied to the drying area132, so that an atmosphere in the drying area132is replaced with such an IPA vapor. Thereby, a hydrophobizing agent that is attached to an inner wall of the chamber1is removed from such an inner wall of the chamber1by an IPA vapor. That is, an inner wall of the chamber1is cleaned.

Thus, in the substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment, a hydrophobizing agent that is attached to an inner wall of the chamber1is removed by an IPA vapor. Thereby, attaching of a residue of a hydrophobizing agent to an inner wall of the chamber1is prevented or reduced, and accordingly, transfer of a residue of a hydrophobizing agent from the chamber1to a plurality of substrates W is prevented or reduced. Therefore, it is possible for the substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment to prevent or reduce collapse of a pattern that is associated with attachment of a particle(s) to a plurality of substrates W.

Furthermore, in a chamber cleaning process, a plurality of substrates W are provided in a state where they are dipped in a DIW that is stored in the processing tank11. Thus, while an IPA vapor is supplied thereto, a plurality of substrates W are dipped in water, so that it is possible to prevent or reduce attaching of a hydrophobizing agent that is removed from the chamber1to such a plurality of substrates W.

Herein, in a chamber cleaning process, a plurality of substrates W are dipped in a DIW so as to protect such a plurality of substrates W. This is not limiting, and a liquid where a plurality of substrates W are dipped, in a chamber cleaning process, may be a liquid other than a DIW. For example, in a chamber cleaning process, the substrate processing apparatus100may store IPA in the processing tank11and dip a plurality of substrates W in such IPA.

In a chamber cleaning process, the controller81discharges a DIW in the processing tank11from a drain port15and supplies a DIW from a rinse nozzle3to the processing tank11. Thereby, it is possible for the substrate processing apparatus100to keep a DIW in the processing tank11in a clean state thereof during a chamber cleaning process.

Subsequently, the controller81controls the vapor supply system65so as to stop supply of an IPA vapor from a second organic solvent nozzle6to the gastight space13and end a chamber cleaning process.

Subsequently, in the substrate processing apparatus100, a rinse process is executed (step S109). Specifically, the controller81continues a process that discharges a DIW in the processing tank11from the drain port15and supplies such a DIW from a rinse nozzle3to the processing tank11, for a certain period of time (seeFIG.14). Thereby, it is possible to discharge, from the chamber1, a hydrophobizing agent that is removed from an inner wall of the chamber1and/or IPA that is used for cleaning of the chamber1, together with a DIW.

Furthermore, the controller81controls the vapor supply system65so as to supply a hot N2gas from a second organic solvent nozzle6to the gastight space13. Thereby, an atmosphere in the gastight space13is replaced with an inert atmosphere.

Subsequently, in the substrate processing apparatus100, a third IPA replacement process is executed (step S110). Specifically, the controller81controls the movement mechanism23so as to move a plurality of substrates W from the storage area131to the drying area132and controls the vapor supply system65so as to supply an IPA vapor from a second organic solvent nozzle6to the gastight space13(seeFIG.15). An IPA vapor contacts surfaces of a plurality of substrates W, so that a DIW that is attached to such surfaces of a plurality of substrates W is replaced with IPA.

The controller81discharges a DIW that is stored in processing tank11from the drain port15, in parallel with supply of an IPA vapor to the gastight space13and lifting of a plurality of substrates W.

Subsequently, in the substrate processing apparatus100, a drying gas supply process is executed (step S111). Specifically, the controller81controls the vapor supply system65so as to supply a hot N2gas from a second organic solvent nozzle6to the gastight space13(seeFIG.16). Thereby, volatilization of IPA that remains on surfaces of a plurality of substrates W is accelerated, so that such a plurality of substrates W are dried.

Subsequently, in the substrate processing apparatus100, a carrying-out process is executed (step S112). Specifically, the controller81controls the movement mechanism23so as to lift the lid body12and a holding unit2. Subsequently, the controller81controls a non-illustrated substrate transfer device so as to deliver a plurality of substrates W from a holding body21to such a non-illustrated substrate transfer device.

First Variation

Next, a first variation of a substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment will be explained.FIG.17andFIG.18are diagrams that illustrate an example of an operation of a substrate processing apparatus100according to a first variation.

Although an example of a case where a DIW is stored in a processing tank11and a plurality of substrates W that are carried in are dipped in such a DIW, as a pre-rinse process, has been explained in an embodiment as described above, the substrate processing apparatus100does not have to dip such a plurality of substrates W that are carried in in such a DIW.

For example, a controller81arranges a plurality of substrates W that are carried in a chamber1, in a storage area131in an empty state thereof (that is, where a DIW is not stored therein) (seeFIG.17). Then, for example, the controller81may omit a humidity conditioning process (step S102) and control a vapor supply system65so as to supply an IPA liquid from a second organic solvent nozzle6to a gastight space13, as a first IPA replacement process (step S103) (seeFIG.18).

Thus, the substrate processing apparatus100according to a first variation omits a pre-rinse process, so that it is possible to prevent or reduce raising of a humidity of the gastight space13. Therefore, it is possible for the substrate processing apparatus100according to a first variation to omit a humidity conditioning process (step S102) (or to attain reduction in time).

Second Variation

Next, a second variation of a substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment will be explained.FIG.19toFIG.22are diagrams that illustrate an example of an operation of a substrate processing apparatus100according to a second variation.

For example, the substrate processing apparatus100may execute an IPA liquid film cleaning process after a rinse process at step S109and before a third IPA replacement process at step S110.

Specifically, a controller81opens a valve74so as to supply an IPA liquid from a third organic solvent nozzle7to a liquid level of a DIW that is stored in a processing tank11, after a rinse process at step S109. Thereby, a liquid film of IPA is formed on a liquid level of a DIW (seeFIG.19).

Subsequently, the controller81controls a movement mechanism23so as to lift a plurality of substrates W and thereby pass a liquid film of IPA (seeFIG.20).

Thus, a liquid film of IPA is formed on a liquid level of a DIW, so that, subsequently, in a process that lifts a plurality of substrates W from such a DIW, it is possible to attach IPA that is present on such a liquid level of a DIW to surfaces of such a plurality of substrates W. Thereby, it is possible to reduce an amount of a DIW that remains on a surface of a substrate W, so that it is possible to improve efficiency of replacement of such a DIW with IPA.

Additionally, the controller81may cause a plurality of substrates W to reciprocate between a storage area131and a drying area132so as to pass a liquid film of IPA through such a plurality of substrates W multiple times.

Subsequently, the controller81opens a valve152so as to discharge a DIW from the processing tank11. Furthermore, the controller81opens a valve54so as to supply an IPA liquid from a first organic solvent nozzle5to a gastight space13(seeFIG.21). Thereby, it is possible to rinse a residue of IPA that is attached to a plurality of substrates W.

Subsequently, the controller81supplies an IPA liquid from a first organic solvent nozzle5to the gastight space13, and opens a valve34so as to store a DIW in the processing tank11(seeFIG.22). Thereby, a plurality of substrates W are dipped in a DIW, so that IPA that is attached to such a plurality of substrates W is rinsed with such a DIW.

Third Variation

Next, a third variation of a substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment will be explained.FIG.23andFIG.24are diagrams that illustrate an example of an operation of a substrate processing apparatus100according to a third variation.

For example, the substrate processing apparatus100may execute an IPA liquid film cleaning process after a rinse process at step S109and before a third IPA replacement process at step S110.

Specifically, a controller81opens a valve74so as to supply an IPA liquid from a third organic solvent nozzle7to a liquid level of a DIW that is stored in a processing tank11, after a rinse process at step S109. Thereby, a liquid film of IPA is formed on a liquid level of a DIW (seeFIG.23).

Subsequently, the controller81opens a valve152so as to discharge a DIW from the processing tank11(seeFIG.24). Thereby, a position of a liquid film of IPA is also lowered as a liquid level of a DIW is lowered. Herein, a liquid film of IPA passes through a plurality of substrates W, so that IPA attaches to surfaces of such a plurality of substrates W.

Thus, a liquid film of IPA is formed on a liquid level of a DIW and subsequently such a liquid level of a DIW is lowered, so that it is possible to attach IPA that is present on such a liquid level of a DIW to surfaces of a plurality of substrates W. Thereby, it is possible to reduce an amount of a DIW that remains on a surface of a substrate W, so that it is possible to improve efficiency of replacement of such a DIW with IPA. Additionally, a subsequent process is similar to that of a third variation as described above so as to omit an explanation(s) thereof.

Fourth Variation

Next, a fourth variation of a substrate processing apparatus100according to an embodiment will be explained.FIG.25is a schematic side view that illustrates a configuration of a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4and a second organic solvent nozzle6according to a fourth variation.

As illustrated inFIG.25, the substrate processing apparatus100may have a connection route90that connects a halfway part of a supply route46and a halfway part of a supply route66. Furthermore, the substrate processing apparatus100may include a first valve47, a second valve67, and a third valve91. The first valve47is provided on the supply route46. For example, the first valve47is provided between a connection part of the supply route46and the connection route90and a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4. The second valve67is provided on the supply route66. For example, the second valve67is provided between a connection part of the supply route66and the connection route90and a second organic solvent nozzle6. The third valve91is provided on the connection route90. Such a first valve47, second valve67, and third valve91correspond to examples of a switching unit.

In the substrate processing apparatus100according to a fourth variation, a controller81controls the first valve47, the second valve67, and the third valve91, so that it is possible to switch a destination of outflow of an IPA vapor between a second organic solvent nozzle6and a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4. That is, the controller81closes the first valve47and the third valve91and opens the second valve67, so that it is possible to discharge an IPA vapor from a second organic solvent nozzle6. On the other hand, the controller81closes the second valve67and opens the first valve47and the third valve91, so that it is possible to discharge an IPA vapor from a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4.

Thereby, it is possible for the substrate processing apparatus100according to a fourth variation to remove a hydrophobizing agent that remains on a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4and/or the supply route46by an IPA vapor.

Furthermore, the controller81may alternately switch a destination of outflow of an IPA vapor between a second organic solvent nozzle6and a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4, in a chamber cleaning process (step S108) and/or a third IPA replacement process (step S110). Thus, it is possible to deliver an IPA vapor to a drying area132evenly.

As has been described above, a substrate processing apparatus according to an embodiment (a substrate processing apparatus100as an example thereof) is a substrate processing apparatus that collectively executes a drying process for a plurality of substrates (substrates W as examples thereof) in a wet state thereof. The substrate processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes a chamber (a chamber1as an example thereof), a holding unit (a holding unit2as an example thereof), a hydrophobizing agent nozzle (a hydrophobizing agent nozzle4as an example thereof), a first organic solvent nozzle (a first organic solvent nozzle5as an example thereof), a second organic solvent nozzle (a second organic solvent nozzle6as an example thereof), and an exhaust port (an exhaust port16as an example thereof). The chamber has a gastight space (a gastight space13as an example thereof) that is capable of accommodating the plurality of substrates. The holding unit lifts or lowers the plurality of substrates between a storage area (a storage area131as an example thereof) where a liquid (a DIW as an example thereof) is stored in the gastight space and a drying area (a drying area132as an example thereof) that is located above the storage area in the gastight space. The hydrophobizing agent nozzle supplies a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent to the drying area. The first organic solvent nozzle supplies an organic solvent (an IPA liquid as an example thereof) from the drying area to the storage area. The second organic solvent nozzle supplies a vapor of an organic solvent (an IPA vapor as an example thereof) to the drying area. The exhaust port discharges a gas in the gastight space.

It is possible for a substrate processing apparatus according to an embodiment to remove a hydrophobizing agent that is attached to an inner wall of a chamber by using a vapor of an organic solvent that is supplied from a second organic solvent nozzle. Thereby, attaching of a residue of a hydrophobizing agent to an inner wall of a drying chamber is prevented or reduced, so that it is possible to prevent or reduce transfer of a residue of a hydrophobizing agent from a chamber to a substrate. Therefore, it is possible for a substrate processing apparatus according to an embodiment to prevent or reduce collapse of a pattern that is associated with attachment of a particle(s) to a substrate.

The first organic solvent nozzle and the second organic solvent nozzle may be arranged above the hydrophobizing agent nozzle.

A second organic solvent nozzle is arranged above a hydrophobizing agent nozzle, so that it is possible to clean an inner wall of a chamber that is located at a comparatively upper side thereof efficiently by using a vapor of an organic solvent. Furthermore, a first organic solvent nozzle is arranged above a hydrophobizing agent nozzle, so that it is possible to clean an inner wall of a chamber that is located at a comparatively lower side thereof efficiently.

The second organic solvent nozzle may supply a vapor of an organic solvent upward or obliquely upward. As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to clean an inner wall of a chamber that is located at a comparatively upper side thereof efficiently.

The substrate processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes a connection route (a connection route90as an example thereof), and a switching unit (a first valve47, a second valve67, and a third valve91as examples thereof). The connection route connects a halfway part of a second organic solvent supply route (a supply route66as an example thereof) that supplies a vapor of an organic solvent to the second organic solvent nozzle and a halfway part of a hydrophobizing agent supply route (a supply route46as an example thereof) that supplies a hydrophobizing agent to the hydrophobizing agent nozzle. The switching unit switches a destination of outflow of a vapor of an organic solvent between the second organic solvent nozzle and the hydrophobizing agent nozzle.

As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to clean an inner wall of a chamber more evenly. Furthermore, it is possible to remove a hydrophobizing agent that remains in an inside of a hydrophobizing agent supply route by a vapor of an organic solvent. Hence, it is possible to prevent or reduce attaching of a reside of a hydrophobizing agent to an inside of a hydrophobizing agent supply route and transfer of a reside of a hydrophobizing agent that is attached to such an inside of a hydrophobizing agent supply route to a substrate. Therefore, it is possible for a substrate processing apparatus according to an embodiment to further prevent or reduce collapse of a pattern that is associated with attachment of a particle(s) to a substrate.

The substrate processing apparatus according to an embodiment may include a first vaporizer (a vapor supply system65as an example thereof) that vaporizes a hydrophobizing agent, and a second vaporizer (a vapor supply system45as an example thereof) that vaporizes an organic solvent.

As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to vaporize a hydrophobizing agent and an organic solvent on respective suitable conditions (temperatures, etc.) thereof.

The first organic solvent nozzle may spray an organic solvent in a conical form or a fan-like form.

As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to supply an organic solvent to a plurality of substrates efficiently and it is also possible to supply such an organic solvent to an inner wall of a chamber efficiently.

The hydrophobizing agent nozzle and the second organic solvent nozzle includes a body unit (body units41,61as examples thereof), and a plurality of discharge holes (discharge ports42,62as examples thereof). The body unit is a member with a cylindrical shape that extends along an arrangement direction of the plurality of substrates. The plurality of discharge holes are formed on the body unit at an interval(s) along an arrangement direction of the plurality of substrates.

As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to supply a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent and a vapor of an organic solvent to an inside of a chamber by a comparatively simple configuration.

The exhaust port may be arranged above the hydrophobizing agent nozzle. As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to discharge a vapor that fills a drying area efficiently.

Furthermore, a substrate processing method according to an embodiment is a substrate processing method that collectively executes a drying process for a plurality of substrates in a wet state thereof. The substrate processing method according to an embodiment includes a first arrangement step (step S101as an example thereof), a first replacement step (step S103as an example thereof), a second arrangement step (step S104as an example thereof), a second replacement step (step S105as an example thereof), a third arrangement step (step S106as an example thereof), a third replacement step (step S107as an example thereof), and a chamber cleaning step (step S108as an example thereof). The first arrangement step arranges the plurality of substrates in a storage area of a chamber that is capable of accommodating the plurality of substrates where the chamber has a gastight space that includes the storage area where a liquid is stored and a drying area that is located above the storage area. The first replacement step supplies an organic solvent from a first organic solvent nozzle to the plurality of substrates so as to replace a liquid that is attached to the plurality of substrates with an organic solvent, after the first arrangement step. The second arrangement step arranges the plurality of substrates in the drying area, after the first replacement step. The second replacement step supplies a vapor of a hydrophobizing agent from a hydrophobizing agent nozzle to the plurality of substrates so as to replace an organic solvent that is attached to the plurality of substrates with a hydrophobizing agent, after the second arrangement step. The third arrangement step arranges the plurality of substrates in the storage area, after the second replacement step. The third replacement step supplies an organic solvent from the first organic solvent nozzle to the plurality of substrates so as to replace a hydrophobizing agent that is attached to the plurality of substrates with an organic solvent, after the third arrangement step. The chamber cleaning step supplies a vapor of an organic solvent from a second organic solvent nozzle to the drying area in a state where a liquid (a DIW as an example thereof) is stored in the storage area and the plurality of substrates are dipped in a liquid, so as to clean the chamber, after the third replacement step.

Therefore, it is possible for a substrate processing method according to an embodiment to prevent or reduce collapse of a pattern that is associated with attachment of a particle(s) to a substrate.

The first arrangement step may arrange the plurality of substrates in the storage area where a liquid is stored, so as to dip the plurality of substrates in a liquid. Furthermore, the substrate processing method according to an embodiment may further include a humidity conditioning step (step S102as an example thereof) that supplies a drying gas (a hot N2gas as an example thereof) to the drying area for at least a period of time after the first arrangement step and before the second replacement step.

As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to prevent or reduce deactivation of a hydrophobizing agent.

The first replacement step may supply an organic solvent from the first organic solvent nozzle to the plurality of substrates while the plurality of substrates are moved from the storage area to the drying area.

As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to supply an organic solvent to a plurality of substrates evenly.

The first replacement step may supply an organic solvent from the first organic solvent nozzle to the plurality of substrates while the plurality of substrates are caused to reciprocate between the storage area and the drying area at least one time.

As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to supply an organic solvent to a plurality of substrates more evenly.

The first replacement step may move the plurality of substrates at a speed of 1 mm/sec or greater and 300 mm/sec or less.

A plurality of substrates are moved at a comparatively low speed, so that it is possible to supply an organic solvent to a plurality of substrates more evenly.

The third replacement step may supply an organic solvent from the first organic solvent nozzle to the plurality of substrates while the plurality of substrates are moved from the storage area to the drying area.

As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to supply an organic solvent to a plurality of substrates evenly.

The third replacement step may supply an organic solvent from the first organic solvent nozzle to the plurality of substrates while the plurality of substrates are caused to reciprocate between the storage area and the drying area at least one time.

As such a configuration is provided, it is possible to supply an organic solvent to a plurality of substrates more evenly.

The third replacement step may move the plurality of substrates at a speed of 1 mm/sec or greater and 300 mm/sec or less.

A plurality of substrates are moved at a comparatively low speed, so that it is possible to supply an organic solvent to such a plurality of substrates more evenly.

The first arrangement step may arrange the plurality of substrates in the storage area in an empty state thereof.

A humidity of a drying area is not readily increased as compared with a case where a plurality of substrates are dipped in a liquid that is stored in a storage area, so that it is possible to prevent or reduce deactivation of a hydrophobizing agent.

The substrate processing method according to an embodiment may include a dipping step, a liquid film formation step, and a passing step. The dipping step stores a liquid (a DIW as an example thereof) in the storage area so as to dip the plurality of substrates in a liquid, after the third replacement step and before the chamber cleaning step. The liquid film formation step forms a liquid film of an organic solvent on a surface of a liquid that is stored in the storage area, after the dipping step and before the chamber cleaning step. The passing step moves the plurality of substrates from the storage area to the drying area so as to pass the liquid film therethrough, after the liquid film formation step and before the chamber cleaning step.

Thereby, it is possible to supply an organic solvent to a plurality of substrates more evenly.

The passing step may cause the plurality of substrates to reciprocate between the storage area and the drying area at least one time.

It is possible to supply an organic solvent to a plurality of substrates more evenly.

The substrate processing method according to an embodiment may include a dipping step, a liquid film formation step, and a passing step. The dipping step stores a liquid (a DIW as an example thereof) in the storage area so as to dip the plurality of substrates in a liquid, after the third replacement step and before the chamber cleaning step. The liquid film formation step forms a liquid film of an organic solvent on a surface of a liquid that is stored in the storage area, after the dipping step and before the chamber cleaning step. The passing step discharges a liquid that is stored in the storage area from the storage area so as to lower a position of the liquid film and passes the plurality of substrates therethrough, after the liquid film formation step and before the chamber cleaning step.

It is possible to supply an organic solvent to a plurality of substrates more evenly.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent or reduce collapse of a pattern that is associated with attachment of a particle(s) to a substrate.

It should be considered that an embodiment(s) that is/are disclosed herein is/are not limitative but is/are illustrative in all respects. In fact, it is possible to implement an embodiment(s) as described above in a variety of forms. Furthermore, an embodiment(s) as described above may be omitted, substituted, or modified in various forms without departing from an appended claim(s) and an essence thereof.