Helium ion microscope invasiveness and imaging study for semiconductor applications

The helium ion gas field ion source is a novel charged particle source technology with potentially greater capabilities than electron beam based tools for imaging and nanomachining [Ward et al., J. Vac. Sci. Technol. B (to be published); Morgan et al., Microscopy Today 14, 24 (2006); V. N. Tondare, J. Vac. Sci. Technol. A 23, 1498 (2005)]. Potential strengths of He ions over electrons (scanning electron microscopy) are improved thin film surface sensitivity, material contrast, IBIC voltage contrast, Rutherford backscattering material contrast, and the ability to utilize in situ electron charge neutralization on floating substrates which have enhanced charging properties (e.g., masks, photoresist). In this article, the authors will discuss and illustrate examples highlighting several of these attributes. Helium ions, unlike electrons, induce collision events in the material lattice. A critical area to understand is the operating conditions and sample types for which the advantages of helium ion imaging can...