Simulations of diffusion barrier deposition on porous low-k films

Implementation of Cu/low-k in advanced interconnections requires a diffusion barrier to prevent copper penetration in low-k dielectrics. The barrier should be continuous to prevent copper diffusion and thin enough to keep interconnection line resistance low. Deposition of a diffusion barrier becomes an issue when porous low-k dielectrics are used. We developed a Monte Carlo simulation model to describe deposition of a diffusion barrier on a porous low-k film. The model provided explanation for the sealing behavior of different porous film by TaN diffusion barrier. Previously we have shown that TaN barrier integrity depends on chemical nature of the substrate rather than on porous structure: the same barrier can be continuous on oxycarbide (SiOCH) but non-continuous on HSQ (hydrogen silsesquioxane) although porous structures of the two films are similar. Using the model, we show that surface diffusion of TaN during deposition plays a key role in continuous barrier formation. Presence of carbon suppresses TaN diffusion (probably by TaC formation) and the barrier does not penetrate deep into the film forming a continuous layer on the top surface. The model is also able to predict sealing behavior for different porous low-k films with different porosity/pore sizes.