Patent ID: 7381660

Claim:
A method of forming a silicon and nitrogen containing dielectric barrier layer comprising a first sub-layer containing silicon and nitrogen, a second sub-layer containing silicon and nitrogen, and an intermediate sub-layer containing silicon and nitrogen positioned between said first and second sub-layers, the method comprising: providing a structure comprising an exposed copper surface; and performing at least one deposition process to form said first, second and intermediate sub-layers above said exposed copper surface, said first sub-layer having a first surface that interfaces with said exposed copper surface, said intermediate layer having a surface that interfaces with said first sub-layer, said second sub-layer having a first surface that interfaces with said intermediate layer and a second surface that is opposite said first surface of said second sub-layer, wherein the parameters of said at least one deposition process are adjusted such that a concentration of silicon in said first sub-layer is less than a concentration of silicon in said second sub-layer.