JP7202198B2 - Plasma processing equipment - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a plasma processing apparatus.

2. Description of the Related Art There is a plasma processing apparatus that generates plasma by applying high frequency waves between two electrodes and processes a substrate with the plasma. Such a plasma processing apparatus can operate as a sputtering apparatus or as an etching apparatus depending on the area ratio and/or bias of the two electrodes. A plasma processing apparatus configured as a sputtering apparatus has a first electrode that holds a target and a second electrode that holds a substrate. A plasma is generated between the electrode and the second electrode (between the target and the substrate). The creation of the plasma produces a self-bias voltage on the surface of the target, which bombards the target with ions and ejects particles of its constituent material from the target.

U.S. Patent No. 5,300,000 describes a sputtering apparatus having a grounded chamber, a target electrode connected to an RF source through an impedance matching network, and a substrate holding electrode grounded through a substrate electrode tuning circuit. It is

In a sputtering apparatus such as that described in Patent Document 1, the chamber can function as an anode in addition to the substrate holding electrode. The self-bias voltage can depend on the state of the portion that can function as a cathode and the state of the portion that can function as an anode. Thus, if the chamber also functions as an anode in addition to the substrate holding electrode, the cell bias voltage can also vary depending on the state of the portion of the chamber that functions as the anode. Changes in the self-bias voltage result in changes in the plasma potential, which can affect the properties of the films formed.

When a film is formed on the substrate by the sputtering apparatus, the film may also be formed on the inner surface of the chamber. This can change the state of the part of the chamber that can function as the anode. Therefore, if the sputtering apparatus is continuously used, the film formed on the inner surface of the chamber changes the self-bias voltage, and the plasma potential may also change. Therefore, conventionally, it has been difficult to keep the properties of the film formed on the substrate constant even when the sputtering apparatus is used for a long period of time.

Similarly, even when the etching apparatus is used for a long period of time, the film formed on the inner surface of the chamber changes the self-bias voltage, which may change the plasma potential, thereby maintaining the substrate etching characteristics constant. It was difficult.

Japanese Patent Publication No. 55-35465

The present invention has been made based on the recognition of the above problem, and provides an advantageous technique for stabilizing the plasma potential in long-term use.

One aspect of the present invention relates to a plasma processing apparatus, wherein the plasma processing apparatus includes a first high-frequency power supply, a first impedance matching circuit, and an electrical connection to the first high-frequency power supply via the first impedance matching circuit. a first unbalanced terminal connected to a grounded second unbalanced terminal, a first balanced terminal and a second balanced terminal; a second high frequency power supply; a second impedance matching circuit; a second balun having a third unbalanced terminal electrically connected to the second high-frequency power supply via a two-impedance matching circuit, a grounded fourth unbalanced terminal, a third balanced terminal, and a fourth balanced terminal; a grounded vacuum vessel; a first electrode electrically connected to the first balanced terminal via a first blocking capacitor and electrically connected to the third balanced terminal via a second blocking capacitor; a second electrode electrically connected to the second balanced terminal without a blocking capacitor; and a third electrode electrically connected to the fourth balanced terminal without a blocking capacitor ; Let Rp be a resistance component between the first balanced terminal and the second balanced terminal when the side of the first electrode and the second electrode is viewed from the side of the first balanced terminal and the second balanced terminal, When the inductance between the first unbalanced terminal and the first balanced terminal is X, 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The figure which shows typically the structure of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of 1st Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a balun; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another configuration example of a balun; 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining the function of the balun 103; FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating relationships among currents I1 (=I2), I2', I3, ISO, and α (=X/Rp); FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of plasma potential and cathode potential when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of plasma potential and cathode potential when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of plasma potential and cathode potential when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of plasma potential and cathode potential when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied; FIG. 5 is a diagram showing simulation results of plasma potential and cathode potential when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied; FIG. 5 is a diagram showing simulation results of plasma potential and cathode potential when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied; FIG. 5 is a diagram showing simulation results of plasma potential and cathode potential when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied; FIG. 5 is a diagram showing simulation results of plasma potential and cathode potential when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied; The figure which illustrates the confirmation method of Rp-jXp. The figure which shows typically the structure of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of 2nd Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows typically the structure of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of 3rd Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows typically the structure of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of 4th Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows typically the structure of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of 5th Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows typically the structure of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of 6th Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows typically the structure of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of 7th Embodiment of this invention. The figure explaining the function of the balun of 6th Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of a plasma potential and two cathode potentials when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of a plasma potential and two cathode potentials when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of a plasma potential and two cathode potentials when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of a plasma potential and two cathode potentials when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of a plasma potential and two cathode potentials when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of a plasma potential and two cathode potentials when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of a plasma potential and two cathode potentials when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing simulation results of a plasma potential and two cathode potentials when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied; The figure which shows typically the structure of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of 8th Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows typically the structure of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of 9th Embodiment of this invention.

The invention will now be described through its exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 schematically shows the configuration of a plasma processing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The plasma processing apparatus of the first embodiment can operate as a sputtering apparatus that forms a film on the substrate 112 by sputtering. The plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a balun (balance-unbalance conversion circuit) 103 , a vacuum vessel 110 , a first electrode 106 and a second electrode 111 . Alternatively, plasma processing apparatus 1 may be understood as comprising balun 103 and main body 10 comprising vacuum vessel 110 , first electrode 106 and second electrode 111 . The body 10 has a first terminal 251 and a second terminal 252 . The first electrode 106 may be arranged so as to cooperate with the vacuum vessel 110 to separate the vacuum space and the external space (that is, constitute a part of the vacuum partition wall), or the vacuum vessel 110 may may be placed inside. The second electrode 111 may be arranged to cooperate with the vacuum container 110 to separate the vacuum space and the external space (that is, constitute a part of the vacuum partition), or may may be placed inside.

Balun 103 has a first unbalanced terminal 201 , a second unbalanced terminal 202 , a first balanced terminal 211 and a second balanced terminal 212 . An unbalanced circuit is connected to the first unbalanced terminal 201 and the second unbalanced terminal 202 of the balun 103, and a balanced circuit is connected to the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 of the balun 103. Connected. The vacuum container 110 is composed of a conductor and grounded.

In the first embodiment, the first electrode 106 is the cathode and holds the target 109 . Target 109 can be, for example, an insulator material or a conductor material. Also, in the first embodiment, the second electrode 111 is an anode and holds the substrate 112 . The plasma processing apparatus 1 of the first embodiment can operate as a sputtering apparatus that forms a film on the substrate 112 by sputtering the target 109 . The first electrode 106 is electrically connected to the first balanced terminal 211 and the second electrode 111 is electrically connected to the second balanced terminal 212 . The electrical connection between the first electrode 106 and the first balanced terminal 211 is such that a current flows between the first electrode 106 and the first balanced terminal 211 . 211 means that a current path is formed between them. Similarly, in this specification, a and b are electrically connected means that a current path is configured between a and b such that a current flows between a and b. means.

In the above configuration, the first electrode 106 is electrically connected to the first terminal 251, the second electrode 111 is electrically connected to the second terminal 252, and the first terminal 251 is electrically connected to the first balanced terminal 211. , and the second terminal 252 is electrically connected to the second balanced terminal 212 .

In the first embodiment, the first electrode 106 and the first balanced terminal 211 (the first terminal 251) are electrically connected via the blocking capacitor 104. FIG. Blocking capacitor 104 blocks direct current between first balanced terminal 211 and first electrode 106 (or between first balanced terminal 211 and second balanced terminal 212). Instead of providing blocking capacitor 104 , impedance matching circuit 102 , which will be described later, may be configured to block direct current flowing between first unbalanced terminal 201 and second unbalanced terminal 202 . The first electrode 106 can be supported by the vacuum vessel 110 via the insulator 107 . The second electrode 111 can be supported by the vacuum vessel 110 via the insulator 108 . Alternatively, an insulator 108 can be placed between the second electrode 111 and the vacuum vessel 110 .

The plasma processing apparatus 1 may further include a high frequency power supply 101 and an impedance matching circuit 102 arranged between the high frequency power supply 101 and the balun 103 . High frequency power supply 101 supplies high frequency (high frequency current, high frequency voltage, high frequency power) between first unbalanced terminal 201 and second unbalanced terminal 202 of balun 103 via impedance matching circuit 102 . In other words, the high frequency power supply 101 supplies high frequency (high frequency current, high frequency voltage, high frequency power) between the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 via the impedance matching circuit 102, the balun 103 and the blocking capacitor 104. . Alternatively, the high frequency power source 101 can be understood as supplying high frequency power between the first terminal 251 and the second terminal 252 of the body 10 via the impedance matching circuit 102 and the balun 103 .

A gas (for example, Ar, Kr, or Xe gas) is supplied to the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 through a gas supply unit (not shown) provided in the vacuum vessel 110 . A high frequency is supplied between the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 by the high frequency power supply 101 via the impedance matching circuit 102 , the balun 103 and the blocking capacitor 104 . As a result, plasma is generated between the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 , a self-bias voltage is generated on the surface of the target 109 , ions in the plasma collide with the surface of the target 109 , and the target 109 deviates from the target 109 . Particles of material that make up the are emitted. A film is formed on the substrate 112 by these particles.

FIG. 2A shows one configuration example of the balun 103 . The balun 103 shown in FIG. 2A includes a first coil 221 connecting the first unbalanced terminal 201 and the first balanced terminal 211 and a second coil 221 connecting the second unbalanced terminal 202 and the second balanced terminal 212 . and a coil 222 . The first coil 221 and the second coil 222 have the same number of turns and share an iron core.

Another configuration example of the balun 103 is shown in FIG. 2B. The balun 103 shown in FIG. 2B includes a first coil 221 connecting the first unbalanced terminal 201 and the first balanced terminal 211 and a second coil 221 connecting the second unbalanced terminal 202 and the second balanced terminal 212 . and a coil 222 . The first coil 221 and the second coil 222 have the same number of turns and share an iron core. The balun 103 shown in FIG. 2B also has a third coil 223 and a fourth coil 224 connected between the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212, and the third coil 223 and the second The four coils 224 are configured so that the voltage at the connection node 213 between the third coil 223 and the fourth coil 224 is the middle point between the voltage at the first balanced terminal 211 and the voltage at the second balanced terminal 212 . The third coil 223 and the fourth coil 224 are coils with the same number of turns and share an iron core. The connection node 213 may be grounded, connected to the vacuum vessel 110, or left floating.

The function of the balun 103 will be described with reference to FIG. Let I1 be the current flowing through the first unbalanced terminal 201, I2 be the current flowing through the first balanced terminal 211, I2' be the current flowing through the second unbalanced terminal 202, and I3 be the current flowing to ground among the currents I2. The isolation performance of the balanced circuit to ground is best when I3=0, ie, no current flows to ground on the side of the balanced circuit. When I3=I2, ie, the current I2 flowing through the first balanced terminal 211 all flows to ground, the isolation performance of the balanced circuit to ground is the worst. The index ISO indicating the degree of such isolation performance can be given by the following formula. Under this definition, the larger the absolute value of the ISO value, the better the isolation performance.

ISO[dB]=20log(I3/I2')
In FIG. 3, Rp-jXp extends from the side of the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 to the side of the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 ( 10 shows the impedance (including the reactance of the blocking capacitor 104) when looking at the main body 10 side). Rp indicates a resistance component and -Xp indicates a reactance component. Also, in FIG. 3, X indicates the reactance component (inductance component) of the impedance of the first coil 221 of the balun 103 . ISO has a correlation to X/Rp.

FIG. 4 illustrates the relationship between the currents I1 (=I2), I2', I3, ISO, and α (=X/Rp). The present inventors have proposed a configuration for supplying a high frequency from the high frequency power supply 101 to between the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 via the balun 103, particularly, satisfying 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 in the configuration. However, in order to make the potential of the plasma (plasma potential) formed in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 (the space between the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111) insensitive to the state of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 found to be advantageous for Here, the insensitivity of the plasma potential to the state of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 means that the plasma potential can be stabilized even when the plasma processing apparatus 1 is used for a long period of time. 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 corresponds to −10.0 dB≧ISO≧−80 dB.

5A to 5D show simulation results of the plasma potential and the potential of the first electrode 106 (cathode potential) when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied. FIG. 5A shows the plasma potential and the cathode potential when no film is formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. FIG. FIG. 5B shows the plasma potential and cathode potential with a resistive film (1000Ω) formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 . FIG. 5C shows plasma potential and cathode potential with an inductive film (0.6 μH) formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 . FIG. 5D shows plasma potential and cathode potential with a capacitive film (0.1 nF) formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 . From FIGS. 5A to 5D, it is understood that satisfying 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is advantageous for stabilizing the plasma potential in various states of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. FIG.

6A to 6D show simulation results of the plasma potential and the potential of the first electrode 106 (cathode potential) when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied. FIG. 6A shows the plasma potential and the cathode potential when no film is formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. FIG. FIG. 6B shows the plasma potential and cathode potential with a resistive film (1000Ω) formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 . FIG. 6C shows plasma potential and cathode potential with an inductive film (0.6 μH) formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 . FIG. 6D shows the plasma potential and cathode potential with a capacitive film (0.1 nF) formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 . 6A to 6D, it is understood that the plasma potential can change depending on the state of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 if 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied.

Here, when X/Rp>5000 (e.g., X/Rp=∞) and when X/Rp<1.5 (e.g., X/Rp=1.0, X/Rp=0.5) In both cases, the plasma potential is likely to change depending on the state of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 . When X/Rp>5000, discharge occurs only between the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 when no film is formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 . However, when X/Rp>5000, when a film begins to form on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110, the plasma potential reacts sensitively, resulting in the results illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6D. On the other hand, when X/Rp<1.5, the current flowing through the vacuum vessel 110 to the ground is large. becomes remarkable, and the plasma potential changes depending on the formation of the film. Therefore, as described above, it is advantageous to configure the plasma processing apparatus 1 so as to satisfy 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000.

A method for determining Rp-jXp (only Rp is actually desired to be known) will be exemplified with reference to FIG. First, the balun 103 is removed from the plasma processing apparatus 1 , and the output terminal 230 of the impedance matching circuit 102 is connected to the first terminal 251 (blocking capacitor 104 ) of the main body 10 . Also, the second terminal 252 (second electrode 111) of the main body 10 is grounded. In this state, a high frequency is supplied from the high frequency power supply 101 to the first terminal 251 of the main body 10 through the impedance matching circuit 102 . In the example shown in FIG. 7, the impedance matching circuit 102 is equivalently composed of coils L1, L2 and variable capacitors VC1, VC2. Plasma can be generated by adjusting the capacitance values of the variable capacitors VC1 and VC2. When the plasma is stable, the impedance of the impedance matching circuit 102 matches the impedance Rp-jXp on the side of the main body 10 (the side of the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111) when plasma is generated. . The impedance of the impedance matching circuit 102 at this time is Rp+jXp.

Therefore, based on the impedance Rp+jXp of the impedance matching circuit 102 when the impedances are matched, Rp−jXp (only Rp is actually desired) can be obtained. Alternatively, Rp-jXp can be obtained by simulation based on design data, for example.

Based on Rp thus obtained, X/Rp can be specified. For example, the reactance component (inductance component) X of the impedance of the first coil 221 of the balun 103 can be determined based on Rp so as to satisfy 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000.

FIG. 8 schematically shows the configuration of the plasma processing apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The plasma processing apparatus 1 of the second embodiment can operate as an etching apparatus that etches the substrate 112 . In the second embodiment, the first electrode 106 is the cathode and holds the substrate 112 . Also, in the second embodiment, the second electrode 111 is an anode. In the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the second embodiment, the first electrode 106 and the first balanced terminal 211 are electrically connected via the blocking capacitor 104 . In other words, in the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the second embodiment, the blocking capacitor 104 is arranged in the electrical connection path between the first electrode 106 and the first balanced terminal 211 .

FIG. 9 schematically shows the configuration of a plasma processing apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment of the invention. The plasma processing apparatus 1 of the third embodiment is a modification of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the first embodiment, and further includes at least one of a mechanism for raising and lowering the second electrode 111 and a mechanism for rotating the second electrode 111. In the example shown in FIG. 9 , the plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a drive mechanism 114 including both a mechanism for raising and lowering the second electrode 111 and a mechanism for rotating the second electrode 111 . A bellows 113 forming a vacuum partition may be provided between the vacuum container 110 and the driving mechanism 114 .

Similarly, the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the second embodiment may also include at least one of a mechanism for raising and lowering the first electrode 106 and a mechanism for rotating the second electrode 106 .

FIG. 10 schematically shows the configuration of a plasma processing apparatus 1 according to the fourth embodiment of the invention. The plasma processing apparatus of the fourth embodiment can operate as a sputtering apparatus that forms a film on the substrate 112 by sputtering. Matters not mentioned in the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the fourth embodiment can follow the first to third embodiments. The plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a first balun 103, a second balun 303, a vacuum vessel 110, a first electrode 106 and a second electrode 135 forming a first set, and a first electrode 141 forming a second set. and a second electrode 145 . Alternatively, the plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a first balun 103, a second balun 303, and a main body 10, wherein the main body 10 includes a vacuum vessel 110, and a first electrode 106 and a second electrode 135 forming a first set. , and a first electrode 141 and a second electrode 145 forming a second set. The body 10 has a first terminal 251 , a second terminal 252 , a third terminal 451 and a fourth terminal 452 .

The first balun 103 has a first unbalanced terminal 201 , a second unbalanced terminal 202 , a first balanced terminal 211 and a second balanced terminal 212 . An unbalanced circuit is connected to the first unbalanced terminal 201 and the second unbalanced terminal 202 of the first balun 103, and the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103 have a , to which the balance circuit is connected. The second balun 303 may have a configuration similar to that of the first balun 103 . The second balun 303 has a first unbalanced terminal 401 , a second unbalanced terminal 402 , a first balanced terminal 411 and a second balanced terminal 412 . An unbalanced circuit is connected to the first unbalanced terminal 401 and the second unbalanced terminal 402 of the second balun 303, and the first balanced terminal 411 and the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 are connected to the unbalanced circuit. , to which the balance circuit is connected. Vacuum vessel 110 is grounded.

A first set of first electrodes 106 hold a target 109 . Target 109 can be, for example, an insulator material or a conductor material. A first set of second electrodes 135 are arranged around the first electrodes 106 . The first set of electrodes 106 is electrically connected to the first balanced terminal 211 of the first balun 103 and the first set of second electrodes 135 is electrically connected to the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103 . It is connected to the. A second set of first electrodes 141 hold the substrate 112 . A second set of second electrodes 145 are arranged around the first electrodes 141 . The second set of first electrodes 141 is electrically connected to the first balanced terminal 411 of the second balun 303 and the second set of second electrodes 145 is electrically connected to the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 . It is connected to the.

In the above configuration, the first set of first electrodes 106 is electrically connected to the first terminal 251, the first set of second electrodes 135 is electrically connected to the second terminal 252, and the first terminal 251 is It can be understood as a configuration in which the first balanced terminal 211 of the first balun 103 is electrically connected and the second terminal 252 is electrically connected to the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103 . In the above configuration, the second set of first electrodes 141 is electrically connected to the third terminal 451, the second set of second electrodes 145 is electrically connected to the fourth terminal 452, and the third terminal 451 is electrically connected to the first balanced terminal 411 of the second balun 303 and the fourth terminal 452 is electrically connected to the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 .

The first set of first electrodes 106 and the first balanced terminal 211 (first terminal 251 ) of the first balun 103 can be electrically connected via the blocking capacitor 104 . A blocking capacitor 104 is placed between the first balanced terminal 211 of the first balun 103 and the first set of first electrodes 106 (or between the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103). to cut off the DC current. Instead of providing blocking capacitor 104, first impedance matching circuit 102 may be configured to block direct current flowing between first unbalanced terminal 201 and second unbalanced terminal 202 of first balun 103. good. A first set of first electrode 106 and second electrode 135 may be supported by vacuum vessel 110 via insulator 132 .

The second set of first electrodes 141 and the first balanced terminal 411 (the third terminal 451 ) of the second balun 303 can be electrically connected via the blocking capacitor 304 . A blocking capacitor 304 is placed between the first balanced terminal 411 of the second balun 303 and the second set of first electrodes 141 (or between the first balanced terminal 411 and the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303). to cut off the DC current. Instead of providing blocking capacitor 304, second impedance matching circuit 302 may be configured to block direct current flowing between first unbalanced terminal 201 and second unbalanced terminal 202 of second balun 303. good. A second set of first electrode 141 and second electrode 145 may be supported by vacuum vessel 110 via insulator 142 .

The plasma processing apparatus 1 may include a first high frequency power supply 101 and a first impedance matching circuit 102 arranged between the first high frequency power supply 101 and the first balun 103 . A first high-frequency power supply 101 supplies high-frequency power between a first unbalanced terminal 201 and a second unbalanced terminal 202 of a first balun 103 via a first impedance matching circuit 102 . In other words, the first high frequency power supply 101 supplies high frequency between the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 135 via the first impedance matching circuit 102 , the first balun 103 and the blocking capacitor 104 . Alternatively, the first high-frequency power supply 101 supplies high-frequency power between the first terminal 251 and the second terminal 252 of the main body 10 via the first impedance matching circuit 102 and the first balun 103 . The first balun 103 and the first set of the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 135 constitute a first high frequency supply section that supplies high frequency to the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 .

The plasma processing apparatus 1 may comprise a second RF power supply 301 and a second impedance matching circuit 302 arranged between the second RF power supply 301 and the second balun 303 . A second high-frequency power supply 301 supplies high-frequency power between a first unbalanced terminal 401 and a second unbalanced terminal 402 of a second balun 303 via a second impedance matching circuit 302 . In other words, the second high-frequency power supply 301 supplies high-frequency power between the second set of first electrodes 141 and second electrodes 145 via the second impedance matching circuit 302, the second balun 303 and the blocking capacitor 304. . Alternatively, the second high-frequency power supply 301 supplies high-frequency power between the third terminal 451 and the fourth terminal 452 of the main body 10 via the second impedance matching circuit 302 and the second balun 303 . The second balun 303 and the second set of the first electrode 141 and the second electrode 145 constitute a second high frequency supply section that supplies a high frequency to the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 .

In a state where plasma is generated in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 by the supply of the high frequency from the first high frequency power supply 101, the first pair of first balanced terminals 211 and 212 of the first balun 103 is connected to the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 side. Let Rp1-jXp1 be the impedance when looking at the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 135 side (body 10 side). Let X1 be the reactance component (inductance component) of the impedance of the first coil 221 of the first balun 103 . In this definition, satisfying 1.5≦X1/Rp1≦5000 is advantageous for stabilizing the potential of the plasma formed in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 .

In addition, while plasma is being generated in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 by the supply of the high frequency from the second high frequency power supply 301, the second set from the side of the first balanced terminal 411 and the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 is operated. Let Rp2-jXp2 be the impedance when viewing the side of the first electrode 141 and the second electrode 145 (the side of the main body 10). Let X2 be the reactance component (inductance component) of the impedance of the first coil 221 of the second balun 303 . In this definition, satisfying 1.5≦X2/Rp2≦5000 is advantageous for stabilizing the potential of the plasma formed in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 .

FIG. 11 schematically shows the configuration of the plasma processing apparatus 1 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 1 of the fifth embodiment has a configuration in which drive mechanisms 114 and 314 are added to the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the fourth embodiment. The driving mechanism 114 can include at least one of a mechanism for raising and lowering the first electrode 141 and a mechanism for rotating the first electrode 141 . The drive mechanism 314 can include a mechanism for raising and lowering the second electrode 145 .

FIG. 12 schematically shows the configuration of the plasma processing apparatus 1 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. The plasma processing apparatus of the sixth embodiment can operate as a sputtering apparatus that forms a film on the substrate 112 by sputtering. Matters not mentioned in the sixth embodiment may follow the first to fifth embodiments. A plasma processing apparatus 1 of the sixth embodiment includes a plurality of first high-frequency supply units and at least one second high-frequency supply unit. One of the plurality of first RF feeds may include a first electrode 106a, a second electrode 135a, and a first balun 103a. Another one of the plurality of first RF feeds may include a first electrode 106b, a second electrode 135b, and a first balun 103b. Here, an example in which the plurality of first high-frequency supply units is composed of two high-frequency supply units will be described. Also, the two RF feeds and their associated components are distinguished from each other by the subscripts a, b. Similarly, the two targets are also distinguished from each other by subscripts a and b.

In another aspect, the plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a plurality of first baluns 103a and 103b, a second balun 303, a vacuum vessel 110, a first electrode 106a and a second electrode 135a, a first electrode 106b and a second It has an electrode 135 b , a first electrode 141 and a second electrode 145 . Alternatively, the plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a plurality of first baluns 103a and 103b, a second balun 303, and a main body 10, the main body 10 comprising a vacuum vessel 110, a first electrode 106a and a second electrode 135a, It may be understood as comprising a first electrode 106b and a second electrode 135b, and a first electrode 141 and a second electrode 145. FIG. The main body 10 has first terminals 251 a and 251 b, second terminals 252 a and 252 b, a third terminal 451 and a fourth terminal 452 .

The first balun 103a has a first unbalanced terminal 201a, a second unbalanced terminal 202a, a first balanced terminal 211a and a second balanced terminal 212a. An unbalanced circuit is connected to the first unbalanced terminal 201a and the second unbalanced terminal 202a side of the first balun 103a, and the first balanced terminal 211a and the second balanced terminal 212a side of the first balun 103a , to which the balance circuit is connected. The first balun 103b has a first unbalanced terminal 201b, a second unbalanced terminal 202b, a first balanced terminal 211b and a second balanced terminal 212b. An unbalanced circuit is connected to the first unbalanced terminal 201b and the second unbalanced terminal 202b of the first balun 103b, and the first balanced terminal 211b and the second balanced terminal 212b of the first balun 103b have a , to which the balance circuit is connected.

The second balun 303 may have a similar configuration as the first baluns 103a, 103b. The second balun 303 has a first unbalanced terminal 401 , a second unbalanced terminal 402 , a first balanced terminal 411 and a second balanced terminal 412 . An unbalanced circuit is connected to the first unbalanced terminal 401 and the second unbalanced terminal 402 of the second balun 303, and the first balanced terminal 411 and the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 are connected to the unbalanced circuit. , to which the balance circuit is connected. Vacuum vessel 110 is grounded.

The first electrodes 106a, 106b hold targets 109a, 109b, respectively. Targets 109a, 109b can be, for example, an insulator material or a conductor material. The second electrodes 135a, 135b are arranged around the first electrodes 106a, 106b, respectively. The first electrodes 106a, 106b are electrically connected to the first balanced terminals 211a, 211b of the first baluns 103a, 103b, respectively, and the second electrodes 135a, 135b are electrically connected to the second balanced terminals of the first baluns 103a, 103b, respectively. 212a, 212b.

The first electrode 141 holds the substrate 112 . A second electrode 145 is arranged around the first electrode 141 . The first electrode 141 is electrically connected to the first balanced terminal 411 of the second balun 303 and the second electrode 145 is electrically connected to the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 .

In the above configuration, the first electrodes 106a and 106b are electrically connected to the first terminals 251a and 251b, respectively, the second electrodes 135a and 135b are electrically connected to the second terminals 252a and 252b, respectively, and the first terminals 251a, 251b are electrically connected to first balanced terminals 211a, 111b of first baluns 103a, 103b, respectively, and second terminals 252a, 252b are electrically connected to second balanced terminals 212a, 212b of first baluns 103a, 103b, respectively. can be understood as a physically connected configuration. Also, in the above configuration, the first electrode 141 is electrically connected to the third terminal 451 , the second electrode 145 is electrically connected to the fourth terminal 452 , and the third terminal 451 is the third terminal of the second balun 303 . 1 balanced terminal 411 and the fourth terminal 452 is electrically connected to the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 .

The first electrodes 106a, 106b and the first balanced terminals 211a, 211b (first terminals 251a, 251b) of the first baluns 103a, 103b may be electrically connected through blocking capacitors 104a, 104b, respectively. The blocking capacitors 104a, 104b are provided between the first balanced terminals 211a, 211b of the first baluns 103a, 103b and the first electrodes 106a, 106b (or between the first balanced terminals 211a, 211b of the first baluns 103a, 103b and the first electrodes 106a, 106b). 2 balanced terminals 212a and 212b). Instead of providing the blocking capacitors 104a, 104b, the first impedance matching circuits 102a, 102b provide direct current flowing between the first unbalanced terminals 201a, 201b and the second unbalanced terminals 202a, 202b of the first baluns 103a, 103b. It may be configured to interrupt current. Alternatively, the blocking capacitors 104a, 104b may be placed between the second electrodes 135a, 135b and the second balanced terminals 212a, 212b (second terminals 252a, 252b) of the first baluns 103a, 103b. The first electrodes 106a, 106b and the second electrodes 135a, 135b can be supported by the vacuum vessel 110 via insulators 132a, 132b, respectively.

The first electrode 141 and the first balanced terminal 411 (the third terminal 451 ) of the second balun 303 may be electrically connected through the blocking capacitor 304 . The blocking capacitor 304 conducts direct current between the first balanced terminal 411 and the first electrode 141 of the second balun 303 (or between the first balanced terminal 411 and the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303). Cut off. Instead of providing blocking capacitor 304, second impedance matching circuit 302 may be configured to block direct current flowing between first unbalanced terminal 201 and second unbalanced terminal 202 of second balun 303. good. Alternatively, blocking capacitor 304 may be placed between second electrode 145 and second balanced terminal 412 (fourth terminal 452 ) of second balun 303 . The first electrode 141 and the second electrode 145 can be supported by the vacuum vessel 110 via insulators 142 .

The plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a plurality of first high-frequency power sources 101a and 101b, first impedance matching circuits 102a respectively arranged between the plurality of first high-frequency power sources 101a and 101b and the plurality of first baluns 103a and 103b, 102b. First high-frequency power sources 101a and 101b provide high-frequency power sources between first unbalanced terminals 201a and 201b and second unbalanced terminals 202a and 202b of first baluns 103a and 103b via first impedance matching circuits 102a and 102b, respectively. supply. In other words, the first high-frequency power sources 101a and 101b connect the first electrodes 106a and 106b and the second electrodes 135a, 135b to supply high frequency. Alternatively, the first high-frequency power sources 101a, 101b are connected between the first terminals 251a, 251b and the second terminals 252a, 252b of the main body 10 via the first impedance matching circuits 102a, 102b and the first baluns 103a, 103b. supply high frequency.

The plasma processing apparatus 1 may comprise a second RF power supply 301 and a second impedance matching circuit 302 arranged between the second RF power supply 301 and the second balun 303 . A second high-frequency power supply 301 supplies high-frequency power between a first unbalanced terminal 401 and a second unbalanced terminal 402 of a second balun 303 via a second impedance matching circuit 302 . In other words, the second high frequency power supply 301 supplies high frequency between the first electrode 141 and the second electrode 145 via the second impedance matching circuit 302 , the second balun 303 and the blocking capacitor 304 . Alternatively, the second high-frequency power supply 301 supplies high-frequency power between the third terminal 451 and the fourth terminal 452 of the main body 10 via the second impedance matching circuit 302 and the second balun 303 .

FIG. 13 schematically shows the configuration of the plasma processing apparatus 1 according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. The plasma processing apparatus of the seventh embodiment can operate as a sputtering apparatus that forms a film on the substrate 112 by sputtering. Matters not mentioned in the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the seventh embodiment can follow the first to sixth embodiments. The plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a first balun 103, a second balun 303, a vacuum vessel 110, a first electrode 105a and a second electrode 105b forming a first set, and a first electrode 141 forming a second set. and a second electrode 145 . Alternatively, the plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a first balun 103, a second balun 303, and a main body 10, wherein the main body 10 includes a vacuum vessel 110, and a first electrode 105a and a second electrode 105b forming a first set. , and a first electrode 141 and a second electrode 145 forming a second set. The body 10 has a first terminal 251 , a second terminal 252 , a third terminal 451 and a fourth terminal 452 .

The first balun 103 has a first unbalanced terminal 201 , a second unbalanced terminal 202 , a first balanced terminal 211 and a second balanced terminal 212 . An unbalanced circuit is connected to the first unbalanced terminal 201 and the second unbalanced terminal 202 of the first balun 103, and the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103 have a , to which the balance circuit is connected. The second balun 303 may have a configuration similar to that of the first balun 103 . The second balun 303 has a first unbalanced terminal 401 , a second unbalanced terminal 402 , a first balanced terminal 411 and a second balanced terminal 412 . An unbalanced circuit is connected to the first unbalanced terminal 401 and the second unbalanced terminal 402 of the second balun 303, and the first balanced terminal 411 and the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 are connected to the unbalanced circuit. , to which the balance circuit is connected. Vacuum vessel 110 is grounded.

A first set of first electrodes 105a holds a first target 109a and faces the space on the side of the substrate 112 via the first target 109a. A first set of second electrodes 105b is arranged next to the first electrode 105a, holds a second target 109b, and faces the space on the substrate 112 side via the second target 109b. Targets 109a and 109b can be, for example, an insulator material or a conductor material. The first set of electrodes 105 a is electrically connected to the first balanced terminal 211 of the first balun 103 and the first set of second electrodes 105 b is electrically connected to the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103 . It is connected to the.

A second set of first electrodes 141 hold the substrate 112 . A second set of second electrodes 145 are arranged around the first electrodes 141 . The second set of first electrodes 141 is electrically connected to the first balanced terminal 411 of the second balun 303 and the second set of second electrodes 145 is electrically connected to the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 . It is connected to the.

In the above configuration, the first set of first electrodes 105a is electrically connected to the first terminal 251, the first set of second electrodes 105b is electrically connected to the second terminal 252, and the first terminal 251 is It can be understood as a configuration in which the first balanced terminal 211 of the first balun 103 is electrically connected and the second terminal 252 is connected to the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103 . In the above configuration, the second set of first electrodes 141 is electrically connected to the third terminal 451, the second set of second electrodes 145 is electrically connected to the fourth terminal 452, and the third terminal 451 is electrically connected to the first balanced terminal 411 of the second balun 303 and the fourth terminal 452 is connected to the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 .

The first set of first electrodes 105a and the first balanced terminal 211 (first terminal 251) of the first balun 103 can be electrically connected via a blocking capacitor 104a. A blocking capacitor 104a is placed between the first balanced terminal 211 of the first balun 103 and the first set of first electrodes 105a (or between the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103). to cut off the DC current. The first set of second electrodes 105b and the second balanced terminal 212 (second terminal 252) of the first balun 103 can be electrically connected via a blocking capacitor 104b. A blocking capacitor 104b is placed between the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103 and the first set of second electrodes 105b (or between the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103). to cut off the DC current. A first set of first electrodes 105a and second electrodes 105b can be supported by the vacuum vessel 110 via insulators 132a and 132b, respectively.

The second set of first electrodes 141 and the first balanced terminal 411 (the third terminal 451 ) of the second balun 303 can be electrically connected via the blocking capacitor 304 . A blocking capacitor 304 is placed between the first balanced terminal 411 of the second balun 303 and the second set of first electrodes 141 (or between the first balanced terminal 411 and the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303). to cut off the DC current. Instead of providing blocking capacitor 304, second impedance matching circuit 302 may be configured to block direct current flowing between first unbalanced terminal 401 and second unbalanced terminal 402 of second balun 303. good. A second set of first electrodes 141 and second electrodes 145 can be supported by the vacuum vessel 110 via insulators 142 and 146, respectively.

The plasma processing apparatus 1 may include a first high frequency power supply 101 and a first impedance matching circuit 102 arranged between the first high frequency power supply 101 and the first balun 103 . A first high frequency power supply 101 supplies a high frequency between a first electrode 105a and a second electrode 105b via a first impedance matching circuit 102, a first balun 103, and blocking capacitors 104a and 104b. Alternatively, the first high-frequency power supply 101 supplies high-frequency power between the first terminal 251 and the second terminal 252 of the main body 10 via the first impedance matching circuit 102 and the first balun 103 . The first balun 103 and the first set of first electrode 105 a and second electrode 105 b constitute a first high frequency supply section that supplies high frequency to the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 .

The plasma processing apparatus 1 may comprise a second RF power supply 301 and a second impedance matching circuit 302 arranged between the second RF power supply 301 and the second balun 303 . A second high-frequency power supply 301 supplies high-frequency power between a first unbalanced terminal 401 and a second unbalanced terminal 402 of a second balun 303 via a second impedance matching circuit 302 . A second high frequency power supply 301 supplies a high frequency between a second set of first electrodes 141 and second electrodes 145 via a second impedance matching circuit 302 , a second balun 303 and a blocking capacitor 304 . Alternatively, the second high-frequency power supply 301 supplies high-frequency power between the third terminal 451 and the fourth terminal 452 of the main body 10 via the second impedance matching circuit 302 and the second balun 303 . The second balun 303 and the second set of the first electrode 141 and the second electrode 145 constitute a second high frequency supply section that supplies a high frequency to the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 .

In a state where plasma is generated in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 by the supply of the high frequency from the first high frequency power supply 101, the first pair of first balanced terminals 211 and 212 of the first balun 103 is connected to the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 side. The impedance when looking at the first electrode 105a and the second electrode 105b side (body 10 side) is defined as Rp1-jXp1. Let X1 be the reactance component (inductance component) of the impedance of the first coil 221 of the first balun 103 . In this definition, satisfying 1.5≦X1/Rp1≦5000 is advantageous for stabilizing the potential of the plasma formed in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 .

In addition, while plasma is being generated in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 by the supply of the high frequency from the second high frequency power supply 301, the second set from the side of the first balanced terminal 411 and the second balanced terminal 412 of the second balun 303 is operated. Let Rp2-jXp2 be the impedance when looking at the first electrode 127 and the second electrode 130 side (body 10 side). Let X2 be the reactance component (inductance component) of the impedance of the first coil 221 of the second balun 303 . In this definition, satisfying 1.5≦X2/Rp2≦5000 is advantageous for stabilizing the potential of the plasma formed in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 .

The plasma processing apparatus 1 of the seventh embodiment can further include at least one of a mechanism for raising and lowering the first electrodes 141 forming the second group and a mechanism for rotating the first electrodes 141 forming the second group. In the example shown in FIG. 13 , the plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a drive mechanism 114 including both a mechanism for raising and lowering the first electrode 141 and a mechanism for rotating the first electrode 141 . In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 13, the plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a drive mechanism 314 that moves up and down the second electrodes 145 that constitute the second set. A bellows forming a vacuum partition may be provided between the vacuum vessel 110 and the drive mechanism 114 , 314 .

The function of the first balun 103 in the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG. Let I1 be the current flowing through the first unbalanced terminal 201, I2 be the current flowing through the first balanced terminal 211, I2' be the current flowing through the second unbalanced terminal 202, and I3 be the current flowing to ground among the currents I2. The isolation performance of the balanced circuit to ground is best when I3=0, ie, no current flows to ground on the side of the balanced circuit. When I3=I2, ie, the current I2 flowing through the first balanced terminal 211 all flows to ground, the isolation performance of the balanced circuit to ground is the worst. The index ISO indicating the degree of such isolation performance can be given by the following formula, as in the first to fifth embodiments. Under this definition, the larger the absolute value of the ISO value, the better the isolation performance.

ISO[dB]=20log(I3/I2')
In FIG. 14, Rp-jXp (=Rp/2-jXp/2+Rp/2-jXp/2) is the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal when plasma is generated in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110. The impedance (including reactances of blocking capacitors 104a and 104b) when viewing the first electrode 105a and second electrode 105b side (body 10 side) from the 212 side is shown. Rp indicates a resistance component and -Xp indicates a reactance component. 14, X indicates the reactance component (inductance component) of the impedance of the first coil 221 of the first balun 103. In FIG. ISO has a correlation to X/Rp.

FIG. 4 referred to in the description of the first embodiment exemplifies the relationships among the currents I1 (=I2), I2', I3, ISO, and α (=X/Rp). The relationship of FIG. 4 also holds true in the seventh embodiment. In the seventh embodiment, the inventor also found that 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is formed in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 (the space between the first electrode 105a and the second electrode 105b). It has been found to be advantageous for making the potential of the plasma applied (plasma potential) insensitive to the state of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. Here, the insensitivity of the plasma potential to the state of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 means that the plasma potential can be stabilized even when the plasma processing apparatus 1 is used for a long period of time. 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 corresponds to −10.0 dB≧ISO≧−80 dB.

FIGS. 15A to 15D show the plasma potential, the potential of the first electrode 105a (cathode 1 potential) and the potential of the second electrode 105b (cathode 1 potential) when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is satisfied. 2 potentials) are shown. FIG. 15A shows the plasma potential, the potential of the first electrode 105a (cathode 1 potential) and the potential of the second electrode 105b (cathode 1 potential) when a resistive film (1 mΩ) is formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. 2 potentials). FIG. 15(b) shows the plasma potential, the potential of the first electrode 105a (cathode 1 potential) and the potential of the second electrode 105b (cathode 2 potentials). FIG. 15(c) shows the plasma potential, the potential of the first electrode 105a (cathode 1 potential), and the potential of the second electrode 105b when an inductive film (0.6 μH) is formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. (cathode 2 potential). FIG. 15(d) shows the plasma potential, the potential of the first electrode 105a (cathode 1 potential), and the potential of the second electrode 105b when a capacitive film (0.1 nF) is formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. (cathode 2 potential). From FIGS. 15(a) to 15(d), it is understood that satisfying 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is advantageous for stabilizing the plasma potential in various states of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. be done.

FIGS. 16A to 16D show the plasma potential, the potential of the first electrode 105a (cathode 1 potential), and the potential of the second electrode 105b ( Cathode 2 potential) is shown. FIG. 16A shows the plasma potential, the potential of the first electrode 105a (cathode 1 potential) and the potential of the second electrode 105b (cathode 1 potential) when a resistive film (1 mΩ) is formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. FIG. 2 potentials). FIG. 16(b) shows the plasma potential, the potential of the first electrode 105a (cathode 1 potential), and the potential of the second electrode 105b (cathode 2 potentials). FIG. 16(c) shows the plasma potential, the potential of the first electrode 105a (cathode 1 potential), and the potential of the second electrode 105b when an inductive film (0.6 μH) is formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. (cathode 2 potential). FIG. 16(d) shows the plasma potential, the potential of the first electrode 105a (cathode 1 potential), and the potential of the second electrode 105b when a capacitive film (0.1 nF) is formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110. (cathode 2 potential). 16(a) to 16(d), it is understood that the plasma potential changes depending on the state of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 when 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 is not satisfied.

Here, when X/Rp>5000 (for example, X/Rp=∞) and when X/Rp<1.5 (for example, X/Rp=1.16, X/Rp=0.87) In both cases, the plasma potential is likely to change depending on the state of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 . When X/Rp>5000, discharge occurs only between the first electrode 105a and the second electrode 105b when the film is not formed on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 . However, when X/Rp>5000, when a film starts to form on the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110, the plasma potential reacts sensitively, as illustrated in FIGS. results. On the other hand, when X/Rp<1.5, the current flowing through the vacuum vessel 110 to the ground is large. becomes remarkable, and the plasma potential changes depending on the formation of the film. Therefore, as described above, it is advantageous to configure the plasma processing apparatus 1 so as to satisfy 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000.

FIG. 17 schematically shows the configuration of the plasma processing apparatus 1 according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. The plasma processing apparatus 1 of the eighth embodiment is a modified example of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the second embodiment, and can operate as an etching apparatus for etching the substrate 112 .

The plasma processing apparatus 1 of the eighth embodiment includes a first balun (first balanced-unbalanced conversion circuit) 103, a second balun (second balanced-unbalanced conversion circuit) 603, a vacuum vessel 110, and a first electrode 106. , a second electrode 111 and a third electrode 606 . Alternatively, the plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a first balun 103, a second balun 603, and a main body 10, wherein the main body 10 includes a vacuum vessel 110, a first electrode 106, a second electrode 111, and a third electrode. 606. The body 10 has a first terminal 251 , a second terminal 252 , a third terminal 651 and a fourth terminal 652 . The first electrode 106 may be arranged so as to cooperate with the vacuum vessel 110 to separate the vacuum space and the external space (that is, constitute a part of the vacuum partition wall), or the vacuum vessel 110 may may be placed inside. The second electrode 111 may be arranged to cooperate with the vacuum container 110 to separate the vacuum space and the external space (that is, constitute a part of the vacuum partition), or may may be placed inside. The third electrode 606 may be arranged so as to cooperate with the vacuum vessel 110 to separate the vacuum space and the external space (that is, constitute a part of the vacuum partition), or may be placed inside.

The first balun 103 has a first unbalanced terminal 201 , a second unbalanced terminal 202 , a first balanced terminal 211 and a second balanced terminal 212 . An unbalanced circuit is connected to the first unbalanced terminal 201 and the second unbalanced terminal 202 of the first balun 103, and the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103 have a , to which the balance circuit is connected. The vacuum container 110 is composed of a conductor and grounded.

The second balun 603 has a third unbalanced terminal 601 , a fourth unbalanced terminal 602 , a third balanced terminal 611 and a fourth balanced terminal 612 . An unbalanced circuit is connected to the third unbalanced terminal 601 and the fourth unbalanced terminal 602 side of the second balun 603, and an unbalanced circuit is connected to the third balanced terminal 611 and the fourth balanced terminal 612 side of the second balun 603. , to which the balance circuit is connected. The second balun 603 may have a similar configuration as the first balun 013 .

The second balun 603 can have, for example, the configuration shown in FIG. 2A or the configuration shown in FIG. 2B. Specifically, the second balun 603 connects the fifth coil (221) connecting the third unbalanced terminal 601 and the third balanced terminal 611, and the fourth unbalanced terminal 602 and the fourth balanced terminal 612. and a sixth coil (222). The fifth coil (221) and the sixth coil (222) are coils with the same number of turns and share an iron core. Alternatively, the second balun 603 includes a fifth coil (221) connecting the third unbalanced terminal 601 and the third balanced terminal 611, and a sixth coil (221) connecting the fourth unbalanced terminal 602 and the fourth balanced terminal 612. a coil (222), a seventh coil (223) and an eighth coil (224) connected between the third balanced terminal 611 and the fourth balanced terminal 612; The coil (224) makes the voltage of the connection node (213) between the seventh coil (223) and the eighth coil (224) the middle point between the voltage of the third balanced terminal 611 and the voltage of the fourth balanced terminal 612. configured as The fifth coil (221) and the sixth coil (222) are coils with the same number of turns and share an iron core. The seventh coil (223) and the eighth coil (224) are coils with the same number of turns and share an iron core. The connection node (213) may be grounded, connected to the vacuum vessel 110, or left floating.

In the eighth embodiment, the first electrode 106 is the cathode and holds the substrate 112 . Moreover, in the eighth embodiment, the second electrode 111 is an anode. In the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the eighth embodiment, the first electrode 106 and the first balanced terminal 211 are electrically connected via the blocking capacitor 104 . In other words, in the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the eighth embodiment, the blocking capacitor 104 is arranged in the electrical connection path between the first electrode 106 and the first balanced terminal 211 . The second electrode 111 may incorporate a gas distribution portion 195 including one or more gas supply holes for distributing gases, including etching gas.

Instead of the configuration as described above, the second balanced terminal 212 and the second electrode 111 may be electrically connected via a blocking capacitor. Alternatively, the first balanced terminal 211 and the first electrode 106 may be electrically connected via a blocking capacitor, and the second balanced terminal 212 and the second electrode 111 may be electrically connected via a blocking capacitor. .

The first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 may be arranged to face each other. In another aspect, the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 can be arranged such that at least a portion of the first electrode 106 and at least a portion of the second electrode 111 face each other. A third electrode 606 may be arranged to surround the first electrode 106 . The third electrode 606 may have a ring shape.

The first electrode 106 has a symmetrical shape about the axis of symmetry SA, the second electrode 111 has a symmetrical shape about the axis of symmetry SA, and the third electrode 606 has a symmetrical shape about the axis of symmetry SA. sell. In one example, the first electrode 106 has a circular shape symmetrically arranged about the axis of symmetry SA, the second electrode 111 has a circular shape symmetrically arranged about the axis of symmetry SA, and the third electrode 606 has a , symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis of symmetry SA. The ring shape can be, for example, a circular ring shape or a rectangular ring shape. A circular ring shape has a circular shape defining an outer edge and a circular shape defining an inner edge. The rectangular ring shape has a rectangular shape defining the outer edge and a rectangular shape defining the inner edge.

Let Rp be the resistance component between the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 when the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 are viewed from the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 side. , and let X be the inductance between the first unbalanced terminal 201 and the first balanced terminal 211 . At this time, satisfying 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000 means that the potential of the plasma formed in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 (the space between the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111) is reduced to a vacuum. It is advantageous to make it insensitive to the condition of the inner surface of the container 110 .

Also, the resistance component between the third balanced terminal 611 and the fourth balanced terminal 612 when the side of the first electrode 106 and the third electrode 606 is viewed from the side of the third balanced terminal 611 and the fourth balanced terminal 612 is Rp', and the inductance between the third unbalanced terminal 601 and the third balanced terminal 611 is X'. At this time, satisfying 1.5≦X′/Rp′≦5000 means that the potential of the plasma formed in the internal space of the vacuum vessel 110 (the space between the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111) is This is advantageous for making the state of the inner surface of the vacuum vessel 110 insensitive.

FIG. 18 schematically shows the configuration of the plasma processing apparatus 1 according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. The plasma processing apparatus 1 of the ninth embodiment is a modification of the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the first embodiment, and can operate as a sputtering apparatus that forms a film on the substrate 112 by sputtering.

The plasma processing apparatus 1 of the ninth embodiment includes a first balun (first balanced-unbalanced conversion circuit) 103, a second balun (second balanced-unbalanced conversion circuit) 603, a vacuum vessel 110, and a first electrode 106. , a second electrode 111 and a third electrode 606 . Alternatively, the plasma processing apparatus 1 includes a first balun 103, a second balun 603, and a main body 10, wherein the main body 10 includes a vacuum vessel 110, a first electrode 106, a second electrode 111, and a third electrode. 606. The body 10 has a first terminal 251 , a second terminal 252 , a third terminal 651 and a fourth terminal 652 . The first electrode 106 may be arranged so as to cooperate with the vacuum vessel 110 to separate the vacuum space and the external space (that is, constitute a part of the vacuum partition wall), or the vacuum vessel 110 may may be placed inside. The second electrode 111 may be arranged to cooperate with the vacuum container 110 to separate the vacuum space and the external space (that is, constitute a part of the vacuum partition), or may may be placed inside. The third electrode 606 may be arranged so as to cooperate with the vacuum vessel 110 to separate the vacuum space and the external space (that is, constitute a part of the vacuum partition), or may be placed inside.

The first balun 103 has a first unbalanced terminal 201 , a second unbalanced terminal 202 , a first balanced terminal 211 and a second balanced terminal 212 . An unbalanced circuit is connected to the first unbalanced terminal 201 and the second unbalanced terminal 202 of the first balun 103, and the first balanced terminal 211 and the second balanced terminal 212 of the first balun 103 have a , to which the balance circuit is connected. The vacuum container 110 is composed of a conductor and grounded.

The second balun 603 has a third unbalanced terminal 601 , a fourth unbalanced terminal 602 , a third balanced terminal 611 and a fourth balanced terminal 612 . An unbalanced circuit is connected to the third unbalanced terminal 601 and the fourth unbalanced terminal 602 side of the second balun 603, and an unbalanced circuit is connected to the third balanced terminal 611 and the fourth balanced terminal 612 side of the second balun 603. , to which the balance circuit is connected. The second balun 603 may have a similar configuration as the first balun 013 .

The second balun 603 can have, for example, the configuration shown in FIG. 2A or the configuration shown in FIG. 2B. Specifically, the second balun 603 connects the fifth coil (221) connecting the third unbalanced terminal 601 and the third balanced terminal 611, and the fourth unbalanced terminal 602 and the fourth balanced terminal 612. and a sixth coil (222). The fifth coil (221) and the sixth coil (222) are coils with the same number of turns and share an iron core. Alternatively, the second balun 603 includes a fifth coil (221) connecting the third unbalanced terminal 601 and the third balanced terminal 611, and a sixth coil (221) connecting the fourth unbalanced terminal 602 and the fourth balanced terminal 612. a coil (222), a seventh coil (223) and an eighth coil (224) connected between the third balanced terminal 611 and the fourth balanced terminal 612; The coil (224) makes the voltage of the connection node (213) between the seventh coil (223) and the eighth coil (224) the middle point between the voltage of the third balanced terminal 611 and the voltage of the fourth balanced terminal 612. configured as The fifth coil (221) and the sixth coil (222) are coils with the same number of turns and share an iron core. The seventh coil (223) and the eighth coil (224) are coils with the same number of turns and share an iron core. The connection node (213) may be grounded, connected to the vacuum vessel 110, or left floating.

In the ninth embodiment, the first electrode 106 is the cathode and holds the target 109 . Also, in the ninth embodiment, the second electrode 111 is an anode and holds the substrate 112 . In the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the ninth embodiment, the first electrode 106 and the first balanced terminal 211 are electrically connected via the blocking capacitor 104 . In other words, in the plasma processing apparatus 1 of the ninth embodiment, the blocking capacitor 104 is arranged in the electrical connection path between the first electrode 106 and the first balanced terminal 211 .

Instead of the configuration as described above, the second balanced terminal 212 and the second electrode 111 may be electrically connected via a blocking capacitor. Alternatively, the first balanced terminal 211 and the first electrode 106 may be electrically connected via a blocking capacitor, and the second balanced terminal 212 and the second electrode 111 may be electrically connected via a blocking capacitor. .

The first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 may be arranged to face each other. In another aspect, the first electrode 106 and the second electrode 111 can be arranged such that at least a portion of the first electrode 106 and at least a portion of the second electrode 111 face each other. A third electrode 606 may be arranged to surround the first electrode 106 . The third electrode 606 may have a ring shape.

The first electrode 106 has a symmetrical shape about the axis of symmetry SA, the second electrode 111 has a symmetrical shape about the axis of symmetry SA, and the third electrode 606 has a symmetrical shape about the axis of symmetry SA. sell. In one example, the first electrode 106 has a circular shape symmetrically arranged about the axis of symmetry SA, the second electrode 111 has a circular shape symmetrically arranged about the axis of symmetry SA, and the third electrode 606 has a , symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis of symmetry SA. The ring shape can be, for example, a circular ring shape or a rectangular ring shape. A circular ring shape has a circular shape defining an outer edge and a circular shape defining an inner edge. The rectangular ring shape has a rectangular shape defining the outer edge and a rectangular shape defining the inner edge.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, to publicize the scope of the invention, the following claims are included.

1: plasma processing apparatus, 10: main body, 101: high frequency power supply (first high frequency source), 102: impedance matching circuit (first impedance matching circuit), 103: balun (first balun), 104: blocking capacitor, 106: 1st electrode, 107, 108: insulator, 109: target, 110: vacuum vessel, 111: second electrode, 112: substrate, 195: gas distributor, 201: first unbalanced terminal, 202: second unbalanced Terminals 211: First balanced terminal 212: Second balanced terminal 251: First terminal 252: Second terminal 221: First coil 222: Second coil 223: Third coil 224: Fourth Coil, SA: axis of symmetry, 501: high frequency source (second high frequency source), 502: impedance matching circuit (second impedance matching circuit), 601: third unbalanced terminal, 602: fourth unbalanced terminal, 603: balun (second balun), 611: third balanced terminal, 612: fourth balanced terminal, 604: blocking capacitor, 606: third electrode

Claims (15)

a first high frequency power source;
a first impedance matching circuit;
A first balun having a first unbalanced terminal electrically connected to the first high frequency power supply via the first impedance matching circuit, a grounded second unbalanced terminal, a first balanced terminal and a second balanced terminal. When,
a second high frequency power source;
a second impedance matching circuit;
A second balun having a third unbalanced terminal electrically connected to the second high frequency power supply via the second impedance matching circuit, a grounded fourth unbalanced terminal, a third balanced terminal and a fourth balanced terminal. When,
a grounded vacuum vessel;
a first electrode electrically connected to the first balanced terminal via a first blocking capacitor and electrically connected to the third balanced terminal via a second blocking capacitor;
a second electrode electrically connected to the second balanced terminal without a blocking capacitor;
a third electrode electrically connected to the fourth balanced terminal without a blocking capacitor ;
Let Rp be a resistance component between the first balanced terminal and the second balanced terminal when the first electrode and the second electrode are viewed from the first balanced terminal and the second balanced terminal. , where 1.5≦X/Rp≦5000, where X is the inductance between the first unbalanced terminal and the first balanced terminal;
A plasma processing apparatus characterized by: the first electrode and the second electrode are arranged to face each other;
2. The plasma processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The third electrode is arranged to surround the first electrode,
3. The plasma processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the third electrode has a ring shape,
4. The plasma processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: The first electrode has a shape symmetrical about the axis of symmetry, the second electrode has a shape symmetrical about the axis of symmetry, and the third electrode has a shape symmetrical about the axis of symmetry.
5. The plasma processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The first electrode, the second electrode and the third electrode are supported by the vacuum vessel via an insulator,
6. The plasma processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The first balun has a first coil that connects the first unbalanced terminal and the first balanced terminal, and a second coil that connects the second unbalanced terminal and the second balanced terminal,
7. The plasma processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The first balun further comprises a third coil and a fourth coil connected between the first balanced terminal and the second balanced terminal, the third coil and the fourth coil being connected to the third coil. The voltage at the connection node between the coil and the fourth coil is set to the middle point between the voltage at the first balanced terminal and the voltage at the second balanced terminal.
8. The plasma processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that: The second balun has a fifth coil that connects the third unbalanced terminal and the third balanced terminal, and a sixth coil that connects the fourth unbalanced terminal and the fourth balanced terminal,
9. The plasma processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The second balun further has a seventh coil and an eighth coil connected between the third balanced terminal and the fourth balanced terminal, wherein the seventh coil and the eighth coil are connected to the seventh balanced terminal. The voltage at the connection node between the coil and the eighth coil is set to the middle point between the voltage at the third balanced terminal and the voltage at the fourth balanced terminal.
10. The plasma processing apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that: wherein the first electrode holds a substrate, and the plasma processing apparatus is configured as an etching apparatus for etching the substrate;
11. The plasma processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: wherein the second electrode incorporates a gas distributor for distributing gas;
12. The plasma processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein: The first electrode holds a target, the second electrode holds a substrate, and the plasma processing apparatus is configured as a sputtering apparatus for forming a film on the substrate by sputtering.
11. The plasma processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: Rp' is a resistance component between the third balanced terminal and the fourth balanced terminal when the first electrode and the third electrode are viewed from the third balanced terminal and the fourth balanced terminal. and satisfies 1.5≦X′/Rp′≦5000, where X′ is the inductance between the third unbalanced terminal and the third balanced terminal;
14. The plasma processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that: a first high frequency power source;
a first impedance matching circuit;
A first balun having a first unbalanced terminal electrically connected to the first high frequency power supply via the first impedance matching circuit, a grounded second unbalanced terminal, a first balanced terminal and a second balanced terminal. When,
a second high frequency power source;
a second impedance matching circuit;
A second balun having a third unbalanced terminal electrically connected to the second high frequency power supply via the second impedance matching circuit, a grounded fourth unbalanced terminal, a third balanced terminal and a fourth balanced terminal. When,
a grounded vacuum vessel;
a first electrode electrically connected to the first balanced terminal via a first blocking capacitor and electrically connected to the third balanced terminal via a second blocking capacitor;
a second electrode electrically connected to the second balanced terminal without a blocking capacitor;
a third electrode electrically connected to the fourth balanced terminal without a blocking capacitor;
Rp' is a resistance component between the third balanced terminal and the fourth balanced terminal when the first electrode and the third electrode are viewed from the third balanced terminal and the fourth balanced terminal. and satisfies 1.5≦X′/Rp′≦5000, where X′ is the inductance between the third unbalanced terminal and the third balanced terminal;
A plasma processing apparatus characterized by:

Images