Potential application of tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) in semiconductor manufacturing

Tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS), with nanometer spatial resolution, has the capability to monitor chemical composition, strain, and activated dopants and is a promising metrology tool to aid the semiconductor R&D processes. This paper addresses the major challenges which limit the application of TERS from routine measurement: the lack of comparability, reproducibility, calibration, and standardization. To address these issues, we have developed a robust test structure and the ability to generate high-quality tips using a high volume manufacturing (HVM) approach. The qualifying data will be presented.