| abstract |
A silicon carbon nitride (SiCN) layer is provided which has a low leakage current and is effective in preventing the migration or diffusion of metal or copper atoms through the SiCN layer. The SiCN layer can be used as a diffusion barrier between a metal portion (such as a copper line or via) and an insulating dielectric to prevent metal atom diffusion into the dielectric. The SiCN layer can also be used as an etchstop or passivation layer. The SiCN layer can be applied in a variety ways, including PECVD (e.g., using SiH4, CH4, and NH3) and HDP CVD (e.g., using SiH4, C2H2, and N2). |