Compound Semiconductors | 8. Lithography and Etching Processes Specific to Compound Semiconductors by Pavan | Learn Smarter
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8. Lithography and Etching Processes Specific to Compound Semiconductors

Lithography and etching are critical processes in semiconductor device fabrication, especially for compound semiconductors, which face unique challenges. The chapter details essential lithography techniques and etching methods to ensure precise pattern transfers while addressing material sensitivities. Dry and wet etching methods are explored, highlighting their importance in achieving device performance amidst complex multi-layer structures.

Sections

  • 8

    Lithography And Etching Processes Specific To Compound Semiconductors

    This section discusses the lithography and etching processes tailored for compound semiconductors, emphasizing their unique challenges and techniques.

  • 8.1

    Introduction

    This section introduces lithography and etching processes critical for semiconductor device fabrication, highlighting the unique challenges associated with compound semiconductors.

  • 8.2

    Problem Statement

    This section identifies the adaptations required in lithography and etching processes specific to compound semiconductors.

  • 8.3

    Lithography For Compound Semiconductors

    This section explores the lithography techniques specifically used for compound semiconductors, highlighting their unique challenges and necessary adaptations.

  • 8.3.1

    Photolithography Basics

    Photolithography is a key process in semiconductor fabrication, essential for pattern transfer from masks to photoresists.

  • 8.3.2

    Key Considerations

    This section outlines critical considerations in lithography specific to compound semiconductors, focusing on etch selectivity, surface sensitivity, and thermal constraints.

  • 8.3.3

    Advanced Lithography Techniques

    Advanced lithography techniques are critical for fabricating high-performance semiconductor devices, addressing unique challenges posed by compound semiconductors.

  • 8.4

    Etching Techniques For Compound Semiconductors

    This section discusses the critical etching techniques necessary for the fabrication of semiconductor devices using compound materials, focusing on precision and surface integrity.

  • 8.4.1

    Dry Etching (Plasma-Based)

    This section covers the principles of plasma-based dry etching techniques used in the fabrication of compound semiconductors, highlighting their relevance, methodologies, and key parameters.

  • 8.4.2

    Wet Chemical Etching

    Wet chemical etching is a technique using liquid solutions to selectively remove material in compound semiconductor fabrication.

  • 8.4.3

    Limitations

    This section discusses the limitations associated with lithography and etching techniques in the context of compound semiconductors, emphasizing key challenges such as etch damage and selectivity to underlying layers.

  • 8.5

    Challenges In Lithography And Etching

    This section addresses the unique challenges encountered in lithography and etching processes specifically related to compound semiconductors.

  • 8.6

    Process Flow Example: Gan Hemt Mesa Etching

    This section outlines the specific process flow for etching GaN HEMT mesas, detailing each step involved.

  • 8.7

    Masking Materials And Etch Selectivity

    This section discusses the importance of selecting appropriate masking materials for etching processes in compound semiconductors, focusing on specific materials used for GaN, InP, and GaAs.

  • 8.8

    Metrology And Post-Etch Cleaning

    This section emphasizes the importance of metrology and post-etch cleaning in semiconductor fabrication, focusing on critical dimension measurement and surface preparation.

  • 8.9

    Conclusion

    The conclusion emphasizes the need for stringent process control in the lithography and etching of compound semiconductors due to their sensitivity and complexity compared to silicon.

References

eepe-cs8.pdf

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • Lithography and etching are...
  • Compound semiconductors req...
  • Multiple etching methods, i...

Final Test

Revision Tests