Self-aligned planarization of low-k dielectrics and method for producing the same

Abstract

A method of forming a uniform self-aligned low-k layer with a large process window for inserting a memory array with pillar/convex topography and the resulting device are provided. Embodiments include forming a substrate with a first region and a second region; forming a first low-K layer over the substrate; forming an oxide layer over the first low-K layer; forming a spacer over the oxide layer; etching the spacer to expose the oxide layer in the first region; removing the oxide layer and a portion of the first low-K layer in the first region and a portion of the oxide layer and a portion of the spacer in the second region; removing the spacer in the second region; cleaning the first low-K layer and the oxide layer, a triangular-like shaped portion of the oxide layer remaining; and forming a second low-K layer over the substrate.