Techniques for characterization of silicon penetration during DUV surface imaging

Techniques commonly used to determine silicon penetration depth during deep UV surface imaging lithography are compared to a method referred to as plasma etch 'staining.' This methodology is described in detail and the results compared and correlated to Rutherford Backscattering Spectroscopy (RBS) and ellipsometric (film swelling) measurements. Effects of the staining parameters on the resulting silicon depth are also discussed.