Abstract: Methods for preventing fin bending in FinFET devices and related devices are provided. Embodiments include forming fins in a substrate; forming a non-conformal sacrificial layer over and between the fins to structurally conjoin the fins or an array of fins for structural integrity; forming a first gap-fill dielectric over the sacrificial layer and fins; recessing the first gap-fill dielectric to expose an upper portion of the fins and sacrificial layer; etching the sacrificial layer to expose the fins; forming a second gap-fill dielectric over the first gap-fill dielectric and over and between the fins; and recessing the second gap-fill dielectric to expose the upper portion of the fins.

Abstract: Methods for preparing a silicon oxynitride layer where the silicon oxynitride layer is deposited atop a substrate and have a low concentration of nitrogen at the interface of the silicon oxynitride layer and the substrate. The silicon oxynitride layer is formed by pulsing at least one interface precursor onto a substrate, where said substrate chemisorbs a portion of said at least one interface precursor to form a monolayer of said at least one interface precursor; and pulsing a nitrogen-containing precursor onto said substrate containing said monolayer of interface precursor, where said monolayer of said at least one interface precursor chemisorbs a portion of said nitrogen-containing precursor to form a monolayer of said nitrogen-containing precursor. The interface precursor includes oxygen-containing or silicon-containing precursor gasses.