Methods of forming gate structures for semiconductor devices using a replacement gate technique and the resulting devices

Abstract

One method disclosed herein includes forming a sacrificial gate structure comprised of upper and lower sacrificial gate electrodes, performing at least one etching process to define a patterned upper sacrificial gate electrode comprised of a plurality of trenches that expose a portion of a surface of the lower sacrificial gate electrode and performing another etching process through the patterned upper sacrificial gate electrode to remove the lower sacrificial gate electrode and a sacrificial gate insulation layer and thereby define a first portion of a replacement gate cavity that is at least partially positioned under the patterned upper sacrificial gate electrode.