Stmicroelectronics Gmbh

Jamin Ling

Tsiu Chiu Chan

Kuei-Wu Huang

A method is provided for forming planar multilevel metallization of a semiconductor integrated circuit, and an integrated circuit formed according to the same. Multilevel metallization is achieved through a planar process at each layer to allow for minimum widths of lines and vias and minimal lateral spacing between lines. Conductive lines and contacts are formed before planarization to further achieve good step coverage. A first metallization layer is formed by depositing aluminum over the integrated circuit, patterning and etching to form metal interconnect lines. Regions of planar insulating material are then formed between the metal lines. Another layer of aluminum is deposited and etched to form metal vias over selected portions of the metal lines. This layer of aluminum is patterned with a reverse pattern of that used to pattern the metal lines. Again, regions of planar insulating material are formed between the metal vias. The process of forming the aluminum lines and vias before planarization is free of voids, provides good step coverage and minimizes electromigration problems.

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Westboro, MA, United States of America

Jamin Ling