Simulation of larger mask areas using the waveguide method with fast decomposition technique

A new and optimized waveguide based electromagnetic field solver with decomposition technique for rigorous optical and extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask near field simulations is presented. The model allows to perform full three dimensional (full 3D) simulations as well as three dimensional simulations based on a decomposition technique (Q3D, "Q" means "quasi"). After a short introduction of the waveguide method the decomposition technique is presented. Subsequently the capabilities of the new electromagnetic field solver are demonstrated exemplarily based on state-of-the-art optical and EUV systems. The simulation of larger mask areas and the fast simulation of standard sized mask areas is shown. A comparison between the full 3D and the Q3D approach demonstrates the field of application of the decomposition technique.