Method of fabricating SiO2 spacers and annealing caps

摘要

Divot fill methods of incorporating thin SiO2 spacer and/or annealing caps into a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) processing flow are provided. In accordance with the present invention, the divot fill processes provide a means for protecting the exposed surfaces of the thin SiO2 spacer and/or annealing cap such that those surfaces are not capable of being attacked by a subsequent silicide pre-cleaning step. CMOS devices including thin SiO2 spacer and/or annealing caps whose surfaces are protected such that those surfaces are not capable of being attacked by a subsequent silicide pre-cleaning or other process steps are also provided.