Abstract: An apparatus for chemical-mechanical planarization (CMP) of semiconductor wafers that allows independent micro-control of each spindle for tailored CMP performance. The present invention provides, in one embodiment, a CMP tool that includes a stationary bridge that houses a rack and pinion assembly. The rack and pinion assembly is coupled to a plurality of motor assemblies each of which is coupled to rotate a spindle. Significantly, movements of the spindles across are individually and independently controlled by the rack and pinion assembly. An advantage of the present independent spindle motion design allows optimization of the CMP process for each spindle and enables more accurate prediction of the effect of translation on CMP performance. Independent rotation and downforce capability of the present invention provides additional flexibility in terms of tuning polish rates and uniformity. Another advantage of the present invention is that a more compact enclosure for wafer isolation can be achieved.

Abstract: A method of using a gaseous environment providing improved control of CMP process. In one embodiment, the method comprises several steps. One step involves placing a semiconductor wafer onto a polishing pad of a CMP machine. A subsequent step dispenses a slurry onto the polishing pad. Another step provides a blanket of gas that displaces the ambient atmosphere surrounding the semiconductor wafer. In another step, the blanket of gas is maintained around the semiconductor wafer during the CMP operation.

Abstract: A complementary conditioning system for use in chemical mechanical polishing (CMP). The present invention functions with a CMP machine adapted for polishing a semiconductor wafer having tungsten components fabricated thereon. A polishing pad is mounted on the CMP machine. The polishing pad has a polishing surface configured for polishing the semiconductor wafer and its tungsten components. The performance of the polishing surface is characterized by a polishing efficiency. A complementary end-effector is mounted on the CMP machine. The complementary end-effector is adapted to chemically complement the tungsten components on the semiconductor wafer. The complementary end-effector is further adapted to contact the polishing surface and improve the polishing efficiency by chemically enhancing the polishing surface, thereby obtaining a more efficient removal rate for the chemical mechanical polishing.