Statistical simulation of photoresists at EUV and ArF

Abstract

Requirements of resist modeling strategies for EUV and low-k1 ArF nanolithography continue to become more stringent. Resist designers are consistently faced with the task of reducing exposure dose and line roughness while simultaneously improving exposure latitude, depth-of-focus and ultimate resolution. In this work, we briefly discuss a next-generation resist model for the prediction of statistical resist responses such as line-edge roughness, line-width roughness and CD variability, as well as base lithographic responses such as exposure latitude. The model's parameterized fit to experimental data from a state-of-the art polymer-bound PAG resist irradiated at ArF and EUV will be shown. The probabilistic computation of acid generation at ArF and EUV will be discussed. The factors influencing the hypothesized primary cause of resist roughness, acid shot noise, are discussed.