Process sequence for improved seed layer productivity and achieving 3mm edge exclusion for a copper metallization process on semiconductor wafer

摘要

The present invention generally provides an apparatus and a method for electrochemical deposition of a metal layer on a substrate that achieves high throughput and minimal edge exclusion. The invention provides a method for forming a metal layer on a substrate comprising: depositing a full coverage seed layer over the substrate; electrochemically depositing a metal layer over the seed layer; and removing any exposed seed layer from an annular edge portion of the substrate. The invention also provides an apparatus for forming a metal layer on a substrate comprising: an electrochemical deposition cell having a cathode contact member adapted to contact a peripheral portion of a substrate at less than about 3 mm from an edge of the substrate, a processing cell adapted to remove any exposed seed layer on a peripheral portion of the substrate; and a transfer chamber having a robot adapted to transfer a substrate between the electrochemical deposition cell and the processing cell for removing exposed seed layer.