Techniques - characterization

The following characterization tools are available through NanoFab:

Tool Technique Measures Samples Beam size Analysis
F20 Reflectance Film thickness

Dielectrics,
semiconductors,
thin metals

Large spot Multilayer
optical
models
F40 Reflectance Film thickness Dielectrics,
semiconductors,
thin metals
Small spot,
local areas
Multilayer
optical
models
Woollam Ellipsometer Film thickness
index (n & k)
Dielectrics,
semiconductors,
thin metals
Large spot Multilayer
optical
models
Zygo White light
interference
Optical step
height
  Large area  


Optical cleanroom metrology tools

Tool Technique Requires Material
Dektak (Bruker) Mechanical
Stylus
Step in
films
Any
material
AlphaStep Mechanical
Stylus
Step in
films

 

Optical Microscopes: Several optical microscopes are available in NanoFab, including some with cameras for photomicrographs and line-width measuring capabilities. Additional microscopes are available outside the cleanroom (Axiophot Photomicroscope).

Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM)
Operating manual and capabilities
The FESEM is located in ERC131 and includes EDAX elemental analysis capability, sample preparation, size limits and coating for non-conducting samples.

Electrical testing

Many processes fabricate devices or structures that will need electrical testing after completion or even during the process. The NanoFab provides probe stations for IV or CV measurements and analysis. The Agilent 4155C semiconductor parameter analyzer (SPA) has standard test routines for bipolar and MOSFET devices as well as diodes. It can measure currents from below 1pA to 100mA with some limits on power.

High Temperature Probe Station (HT probe)
This probe station is located in ERC240 and has an Agilent 4155C semiconductor parameter analyzer (SPA) for IV measurements and an Hewlett-Packard impedance bridge for LCR measurements. The system has a thermal chuck and controller for temperature dependent measurements from -30V to +350C. Software is available to automate the measurement and data collection steps.

The following is a list of NanoFab's characterization tools and their capabilities:

SEM

  • Hitachi S4700 FESEM – Variable voltage SEM with EDX capabilities. Eucentric stage for sample sizes up to 4” diameter.

Optical

  • Filmetrics F20 and F40 – Optical reflectometer for measuring film thicknesses of dielectrics, semiconductors and thin metals.
  • Woollam Ellipsometer – Optical ellipsometer for measuring film thickness and determining refractive index (n & k values) of dielectrics, semiconductors and thin metals.
  • Zygo Interferometer – White light interferometer for measuring optical step height of materials.
  • Optical microscopes – Several optical microscopes are available in the NanoFab, including some with cameras for photomicrographs and line-width measuring capabilities. Additional microscopes are available outside the cleanroom (Axiophot Photomicroscope).

Physical

  • Bruker Dektak profilometer – Mechanical stylus profilometer for measuring step height on films and surface morphology.
  • AlphaStep profilometer – Mechanical stylus profilometer for measuring step height on films and surface morphology

Additional characterization

  • The Eyring Materials Center has numerous additional analytical techniques.