Abstract: The present invention relates generally to semiconductor fabrication. More particularly, the present invention relates to system and method of selectively oxidizing one material with respect to another material formed on a semiconductor substrate. A hydrogen-rich oxidation system for performing the process are provided in which innovative safety features are included to avoid the dangers to personnel and equipment that are inherent in working with hydrogen-rich atmospheres.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to semiconductor fabrication. More particularly, the present invention relates to system and method of selectively oxidizing one material with respect to another material formed on a semiconductor substrate. A hydrogen-rich oxidation system for performing the process are provided in which innovative safety features are included to avoid the dangers to personnel and equipment that are inherent in working with hydrogen-rich atmospheres.

Abstract: A cost-effective and environmentally benign cleaning method is provided which comprises introducing an etch gas into the chamber, performing a first cleaning process to remove the deposited materials at a high rate, and performing a second cleaning process to remove the deposited materials at a high etch selectivity with respect to the materials forming the chamber. The first cleaning process is performed at a first pressure, the second cleaning process is performed at a second pressure. The second pressure is substantially lower than the first pressure to enhance the etching selectivity.

Abstract: A method of depositing dielectric films such as silicon nitride, oxide, oxynitride, and multilayer films on the surface of a substrate is provided. The method comprises providing a substrate in a hot-wall rapid thermal processing chamber, and using a silicon precursor to form a dielectric film on the substrate.

Abstract: A chemical vapor deposition wafer boat for polysilicon deposition in a vertical CVD apparatus comprises upper and lower, mutually engaging, open ended hemicylinders. Gas flow passageways are present in a diffusion zone of the lower hemicylinder wall, but not in the remainder of the walls of the hemicylinder. Gas flow to the wafers is limited to diffusion flow, and the wafers are protected from particulates forming in the gas stream during the coating operation.