5 - nm -thick TaSiC amorphous films stable up to 750°C as a diffusion barrier for copper metallization

Ultrathin TaSiC amorphous films prepared by magnetron cosputtering using TaSi2 and C targets on Si(100), in a sandwiched scheme Si(100)∕TaSiC(5nm)∕Cu, were evaluated for barrier performance in copper metallization. Optimizing carbon content maximizes thermal stability of the films as depicted by sheet-resistance, x-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy examination. The stability temperatures of 700°C (24at.% C) and 750°C (34at.% C) have been systematically verified and discussed. Since Ta, Si, and C are compatible with integrated circuit (IC) processing, the TaSiC films are readily applicable for sub-65-nm IC production.