Patents by Inventor Shih-Chung Chen

Shih-Chung Chen has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20250118563
    Abstract: One or more embodiments of the disclosure are directed to methods of forming structures that are useful for FEOL and BEOL processes. Embodiments of the present disclosure advantageously provide methods of depositing a gapfill material, such as titanium nitride (TiN), in high aspect ratio (AR) structures with small dimensions. Some embodiments advantageously provide seam-free high-quality TiN films to fill high AR trenches with small dimensions. Embodiments of the present disclosure advantageously provide methods of filling 3D structures, such as FinFETs, GAAs, and the like, with a gapfill material without creating a seam. One or more embodiments include selective deposition processes using a carbon (C) layer in order to provide seam-free TiN gapfill in 3D structures, such as GAA devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2023
    Publication date: April 10, 2025
    Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Yongjing Lin, Zhihui Liu, Shih Chung Chen, Haoyan Sha, Alexander Jansen, Zhebo Chen, Janardhan Devrajan, Tza-Jing Gung
  • Publication number: 20250114905
    Abstract: A system and method for chemical mechanical polishing (“CMP”) pad replacement on a CMP processing tool. A platen carrier having two or more platens is positioned within a platen cleaning process module. Each platen includes a CMP pad affixed thereto, and is capable of being independently rotated during operations. When a pad requires replacement, the platen carrier rotates towards a pad tearer tool, which extends and pivots to remove the used pad from the platen as the carrier rotates. A pad tape replacement module is positioned above the CMP tool with pad tape extending from a supply roll to a recycle roll. As the pad tape transits through the module, a backing of the tape is separated and recycled. A pad disposed in the pad tape is then applied to a platen via a pressure roller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2024
    Publication date: April 10, 2025
    Inventors: Shih-Chung Chen, Wei-Kang Tu, Ching-Wen Cheng, Chun Yan Chen
  • Publication number: 20250081593
    Abstract: Methods of manufacturing electronic devices, such as transistors (negative metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS) transistors (e.g., an N-metal stack) and positive metal-oxide-semiconductor (PMOS) transistors (e.g., a P-metal stack)) are described. Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to methods of improving PMOS transistor performance by inhibiting N-metal layer growth. The present disclosure provides two types of processes to reduce or inhibit N-metal layer growth. The disclosure provides methods which include forming a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) on the metal surface (e.g., titanium nitride (TiN)) of the PMOS, and methods which include forming a silicon-containing layer such as silicon oxide (SiOx) on the TiN surface. These two types of processes significantly reduce or inhibit the subsequent growth of an N-metal layer, such as titanium aluminum carbide (TiAlC), on the TiN surface of the PMOS.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2023
    Publication date: March 6, 2025
    Applicant: Applied Materials ,Inc
    Inventors: Yongjing Lin, Zhihui Liu, Sourav Garg, Lu Li, Haoming Yan, Haoyan Sha, Bhaskar Jyoti Bhuyan, Shih Chung Chen, Janardhan Devrajan, Srinivas Gandikota
  • Publication number: 20250046600
    Abstract: One or more embodiments of the disclosure are directed to methods of forming structures that are useful for FEOL and BEOL processes. Embodiments of the present disclosure advantageously provide methods of depositing titanium nitride (TiN) in high aspect ratio (AR) structures with small dimensions. Some embodiments advantageously provide seam-free high-quality TiN films to fill high AR trenches with small dimensions. Embodiments of the present disclosure advantageously provide methods of filling 3D structures, such as finFETs, GAAs, and the like, without creating a seam. The methods include selective deposition processes using blocking compounds in order to provide seam-free TiN gapfill in 3D structures, such as GAA devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2023
    Publication date: February 6, 2025
    Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Muthukumar Kaliappan, Zhebo Chen, Michael Haverty, Yongjing Lin, Shih Chung Chen, Gang Shen, Alexander Jansen, Janardhan Devrajan
  • Patent number: 12202094
    Abstract: A system and method for chemical mechanical polishing (“CMP”) pad replacement on a CMP processing tool. A platen carrier having two or more platens is positioned within a platen cleaning process module. Each platen includes a CMP pad affixed thereto, and is capable of being independently rotated during operations. When a pad requires replacement, the platen carrier rotates towards a pad tearer tool, which extends and pivots to remove the used pad from the platen as the carrier rotates. A pad tape replacement module is positioned above the CMP tool with pad tape extending from a supply roll to a recycle roll. As the pad tape transits through the module, a backing of the tape is separated and recycled. A pad disposed in the pad tape is then applied to a platen via a pressure roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2025
    Assignee: TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventors: Shih-Chung Chen, Wei-Kang Tu, Ching-Wen Cheng, Chun Yan Chen
  • Publication number: 20240383095
    Abstract: Described herein are multi-layered windows for use in chemical-mechanical planarization (CMP) systems and CMP processes. The multi-layered windows of the present disclosure include a transparent structural layer and a hydrophilic surfactant applied to at least a portion of at least one surface of the transparent structural layer. Such multi-layered windows may be in the polishing pad, the platen, or both.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2024
    Publication date: November 21, 2024
    Inventors: Shih-Chung CHEN, Yi-Shao LIN, Sheng-Tai PENG, Ya-Jen SHEUH, Hung-Lin CHEN, Ren-Dou LEE
  • Patent number: 12138735
    Abstract: Described herein are multi-layered windows for use in chemical-mechanical planarization (CMP) systems and CMP processes. The multi-layered windows of the present disclosure include a transparent structural layer and a hydrophilic surfactant applied to at least a portion of at least one surface of the transparent structural layer. Such multi-layered windows may be in the polishing pad, the platen, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2024
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shih-Chung Chen, Yi-Shao Lin, Sheng-Tai Peng, Ya-Jen Sheuh, Hung-Lin Chen, Ren-Dou Lee
  • Patent number: 12062545
    Abstract: Methods of forming metallic tungsten films selectively on a conductive surface relative to a dielectric surface are described. A substrate is exposed to a first process condition to deposit a tungsten-containing film that is substrate free of tungsten metal. The tungsten-containing film is then converted to a metallic tungsten film by exposure to a second process condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2024
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Ilanit Fisher, Chi-Chou Lin, Kedi Wu, Wen Ting Chen, Shih Chung Chen, Srinivas Gandikota, Mandyam Sriram, Chenfei Shen, Naomi Yoshida, He Ren
  • Publication number: 20240204061
    Abstract: Methods of manufacturing and processing semiconductor devices (i.e., electronic devices) are described. Embodiments of the disclosure advantageously provide methods to reduce the resistance of the work function layer of an electronic device, as well as using a low resistivity metal for filling the gate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2022
    Publication date: June 20, 2024
    Inventors: Srinivas Gandikota, Yixiong Yang, Yongjing Lin, Tuerxun Ailihumaer, Tengzhou Ma, Yuanhua Zheng, Zhihui Liu, Shih Chung Chen, Janardhan Devrajan, Yi Xu, Yu Lei, Mandyam Sriram
  • Publication number: 20240181598
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) system includes: a monolithic platen within a platen housing, wherein the monolithic platen is formed of a single piece of material, wherein the monolithic platen includes: a first portion within a first opening, and a second portion within a second opening, wherein the first portion has a different diameter than the second portion; and a polishing fluid delivery module above the monolithic platen, wherein the polishing fluid delivery module is configured to deliver slurry to the monolithic platen during performance of CMP.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2024
    Publication date: June 6, 2024
    Inventors: Tsung-Lung LAI, Cheng-Ping CHEN, Shih-Chung CHEN, Sheng-Tai PENG
  • Patent number: 11996455
    Abstract: Methods of forming and processing semiconductor devices are described. Certain embodiments related to electronic devices which comprise a dipole region having an interlayer dielectric, a high-? dielectric material, and a dipole layer. The dipole layer comprises one or more of titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN), titanium tantalum nitride (TiTaN), titanium oxide (TiO), tantalum oxide (TaO), and titanium aluminum carbide (TiAlC).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2023
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2024
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Yongjing Lin, Karla M Bernal Ramos, Shih Chung Chen, Yixiong Yang, Lin Dong, Steven C. H. Hung, Srinivas Gandikota
  • Patent number: 11975421
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a chemical mechanical polishing system having a unitary platen. The platen includes one or more recesses within the platen to house various components for the polishing/planarization process. In one embodiment, the platen includes a first recess and a second recess. The first recess is located under the second recess. An end point detector is placed in the first recess and a detector cover may be placed in the second recess. A sealing mean is provided in a space between the end point detector and the detector cover to prevent any external or foreign materials from coming in contact with the end point detector. A fastener used for fastening the detector cover to the platen also provides addition protection to prevent foreign materials from coming in contact with components received in the recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2023
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2024
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsung-Lung Lai, Cheng-Ping Chen, Shih-Chung Chen, Sheng-Tai Peng, Rong-Long Hung
  • Publication number: 20240105444
    Abstract: Methods for reducing contact resistance include performing a selective titanium silicide (TiSi) deposition process on a middle of the line (MOL) contact structure that includes a cavity in a substrate of dielectric material. The contact structure also includes a silicon-based connection portion at a bottom of the cavity. The selective TiSi deposition process is selective to silicon-based material over dielectric material. The methods also include performing a selective deposition process of a metal material on the MOL contact structure. The selective deposition process is selective to TiSi material over dielectric material and forms a silicide capping layer on the silicon-based connection portion. The methods further include performing a seed layer deposition process of the metal material on the contact structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2023
    Publication date: March 28, 2024
    Inventors: Jiang LU, Liqi WU, Wei DOU, Weifeng YE, Shih Chung CHEN, Rongjun WANG, Xianmin TANG, Yiyang WAN, Shumao ZHANG, Jianqiu GUO
  • Patent number: 11919126
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) system includes: a monolithic platen within a platen housing, wherein the monolithic platen is formed of a single piece of material, wherein the monolithic platen includes: a first portion within a first opening, and a second portion within a second opening, wherein the first portion has a different diameter than the second portion; and a polishing fluid delivery module above the monolithic platen, wherein the polishing fluid delivery module is configured to deliver slurry to the monolithic platen during performance of CMP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsung-Lung Lai, Cheng-Ping Chen, Shih-Chung Chen, Sheng-Tai Peng
  • Publication number: 20240038833
    Abstract: Memory devices and methods of forming memory devices are described. Methods of forming electronic devices are described where carbon is used as the removable mold material for the formation of a DRAM capacitor. A dense, high-temperature (500° C. or greater) PECVD carbon material is used as the removable mold material, e.g., the core material, instead of oxide. The carbon material can be removed by isotropic etching with exposure to radicals of oxygen (O2), nitrogen (N2), hydrogen (H2), ammonia (NH3), and combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2023
    Publication date: February 1, 2024
    Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Fredrick Fishburn, Tomohiko Kitajima, Qian Fu, Srinivas Guggilla, Hang Yu, Jun Feng, Shih Chung Chen, Lakmal C. Kalutarage, Jayden Potter, Karthik Janakiraman, Deenesh Padhi, Yifeng Zhou, Yufeng Jiang, Sung-Kwan Kang
  • Patent number: 11888045
    Abstract: Methods of forming and processing semiconductor devices are described. Certain embodiments related to electronic devices which comprise a dipole region having an interlayer dielectric, a high-? dielectric material, and a dipole layer. The dipole layer comprises one or more of titanium lanthanum nitride (TiLaN), titanium yttrium nitride (TiYN), titanium strontium nitride (TiSrN), titanium magnesium nitriride (TiMgN, titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN), titanium tantalum nitride (TiTaN), hafnium carbide (HfC), hafnium nitride (HfN), hafnium oxynitride (HfON), hafnium oxycarbide (HfOC), hafnium carbide aluminum (HfCAl), hafnium aluminum nitride (HfAlN), or hafnium carbonitride (HfCN).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Yongjing Lin, Karla M Bernal Ramos, Luping Li, Shih Chung Chen, Jacqueline S. Wrench, Yixiong Yang, Steven C. H. Hung, Srinivas Gandikota, Naomi Yoshida, Lin Dong
  • Publication number: 20230313378
    Abstract: Substrate support, substrate support assemblies and process chambers comprising same are described. The substrate support has a thermally conductive body with a top surface, a bottom surface and an outer edge, and a plurality of long edge purge channel outlet opening at the outer edge of the thermally conductive body. The substrate support is configured to support a substrate to be processed on a top surface of the substrate support. The top surface of the thermally conductive body may have a ceramic coating. Each of the plurality of purge channel outlet is in fluid communication with a long edge purge channel. The long edge purge channel is coated with a long edge purge channel coating. A substrate support assembly includes the substrate support and the support post coupled to the substrate support. The processing chamber include a chamber body and the substrate support within the chamber body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2022
    Publication date: October 5, 2023
    Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Yongjing Lin, Lei Zhou, Muhannad Mustafa, Shih Chung Chen, Zhihui Liu, Chi-Chou Lin, Bin Cao, Janardhan Devrajan, Mario D. Silvetti, Mandyam Sriram
  • Patent number: 11776980
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for forming reflector films are described A liner is formed on a substrate surface followed by formation of the reflector layer so that there is no oxygen exposure between liner and reflector layer formation. In some embodiments, a high aspect ratio structure is filled with a reflector material by partially filling the structure with the reflector material while growth is inhibited at a top portion of the structure, reactivating the top portion of the substrate and then filling the structure with the reflector material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Luping Li, Jacqueline S. Wrench, Wen Ting Chen, Yixiong Yang, In Seok Hwang, Shih Chung Chen, Srinivas Gandikota
  • Publication number: 20230295803
    Abstract: Methods of forming metal-containing films for electronic devices (e.g., logic devices and/or memory devices) and methods for reducing equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) penalty in electronic devices are disclosed. The methods comprise exposing a substrate surface to a metal precursor, such as titanium chloride (TiCl4), a reducing agent, such as a cyclic 1,4-diene, and a reactant, ammonia (NH3), either simultaneously, partially simultaneously or separately and sequentially to form the metal-containing film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2023
    Publication date: September 21, 2023
    Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Haoming Yan, Shih Chung Chen, Mandyam Sriram, EunKee Hong, Janardhan Devrajan, Lakmal C. Kalutarage, Yongjing Lin, Lisa Michelle Mandrell, Arkaprava Dan
  • Publication number: 20230253466
    Abstract: Methods of forming and processing semiconductor devices are described. Certain embodiments related to electronic devices which comprise a dipole region having an interlayer dielectric, a high-? dielectric material, and a dipole layer. The dipole layer comprises one or more of titanium aluminum nitride (TiAIN), titanium tantalum nitride (TiTaN), titanium oxide (TiO), tantalum oxide (TaO), and titanium aluminum carbide (TiAIC).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2023
    Publication date: August 10, 2023
    Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Yongjing Lin, Karla M Bernal Ramos, Shih Chung Chen, Yixiong Yang, Lin Dong, Steven C.H. Hung, Srinivas Gandikota