Implementation of double patterning process toward 22-nm node

In the field of photolithography, a variety of resolution enhancement techniques (RETs) are being applied under the mainstream technology of 193-mm water-based immersion lithography. The resolution performance of photoresist, however, is limited at 40 nm. Double patterning (DP) is considered to be an effective technology for overcoming this limiting resolution. Many double-patterning techniques have come to be researched such as litho-etch-litho-etch (LELE), litho-litho-etch (LLE), and self-aligned spacer DP, but as the pattern-splitting type of double patterning requires high overlay accuracy in exposure equipment, the self-aligned type of double patterning has become the main approach. This paper introduces the research results of various double-patterning techniques toward 22nm nodes and touches upon newly developed elemental technologies for double patterning.