Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 February 2011
In this work we describe the formation of ultra-thin PtSi layers using sputtering for metal deposition and RTP for the silicidation. The problem associated with the controllability of deposition of ultra-thin metal layers can be circumvented by depositing a thick Pt layer followed by a 2-step RTP process with a selective etch step in between. Continuous and uniform 3 nm thick PtSi layers are formed with this technique. Moreover, in another approach similar to the previous one, but in which the first RTP step is omitted, a much smoother PtSi layer is formed. The importance of the interfacial Pt/Si layer formed during metal deposition is described. These processes are totally compatible with CMOS technologies, as shown below.