Method and apparatus for removing photoresist and post-etch residue from semiconductor substrates by in-situ generation of oxidizing species

Abstract

Contaminants are removed from a semiconductor wafer by the in-situ generation of oxidizing species. These active species are generated by the simultaneous application of ultra-violet radiation and chemicals containing oxidants such as hydrogen peroxide and dissolved ozone. Ultrasonic or megasonic agitation is employed to facilitate removal. Radicals are generated in-situ, thus generating them close to the semiconductor substrate. The process chamber has a means of introducing both gaseous and liquid reagents, through a gas inlet, and a liquid inlet. O, O, and HO vapor gases are introduced through the gas inlet. HO and HOliquids are introduced through the liquid inlet. Other liquids such as ammonium hydroxide (NHOH), hydrochloric acid (HCI), hydrofluoric acid (HF), and the like, may be introduced to further constitute those elements of the traditional RCA clean. The chemicals are premixed in a desired ration and to a predetermined level of dilution prior to being introduced into the chamber. The chamber is equipped with megasonic or ultrasonic transducer probe(s), placed in close proximity to the substrate as the substrate rotates with the rotating platen.