Model for facet and sidewall defect formation during selective epitaxial growth of (001) silicon

Abstract
An atomistic growth model is used to explain sidewall facet and defect formation during selective epitaxial growth of (001) silicon. Films grown through oxide windows with {110} sidewall orientations exhibit facets (typically {311} planes) adjacent to the sidewall. This region also has a high density of twins. Films grown in windows oriented to have {100} sidewalls have no sidewall facets and a very low defect density. The facet morphology and twin formation at {110} sidewalls are both explained by the influence of the oxide on nucleation of {111} planes. Similar considerations indicate that films grown along {100} sidewalls are less susceptible to facet and defect formation, as observed. Experimental data on film morphology and defect structure are used to support the model.

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