Mask forming and implanting methods using implant stopping layer and mask so formed

Abstract

Methods of forming a mask for implanting a substrate and implanting using an implant stopping layer with a photoresist provide lower aspect ratio masks that cause minimal damage to trench isolations in the substrate during removal of the mask. In one embodiment, a method of forming a mask includes: depositing an implant stopping layer over the substrate; depositing a photoresist over the implant stopping layer, the implant stopping layer having a density greater than the photoresist; forming a pattern in the photoresist by removing a portion of the photoresist to expose the implant stopping layer; and transferring the pattern into the implant stopping layer by etching to form the mask. The implant stopping layer may include: hydrogenated germanium carbide, nitrogenated germanium carbide, fluorinated germanium carbide, and/or amorphous germanium carbon hydride (GeHX), where X includes carbon. The methods/mask reduce scattering during implanting because the mask has higher density than conventional masks.