Real time nano CHAracterization reLatEd techNloGiEeS

ended

A cost-efficient production of reliable, innovative materials and devices like advanced electronics products (<65 nm strained channel transistors, CMOS image sensors) requires nanoscale real-time in-line control, nowadays not available, during manufacturing. State-of-the-art techniques capable to map physical observables at the nanoscale compatible with in-line operations, like Raman, InfraRed (IR), Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, do not have typically enough resolution for the detailed characterization of nano-scaled devices. Signal amplification by localized plasmon resonance at a sharp tip can give the opportunity of improving both the spatial resolution and the signal/noise ratio. CHALLENGES main objective is to develop multipurpose nano-optical techniques and metrological protocols for real-time characterization, using plasmonic enhanced Raman, IR and PL signals, capable to enable an increase of speed, sensitivity, spectral range with full cleanroom compatibility within different production environments, to improve devices performance, quality and reliability. CHALLENGES will focus on development and demonstration of such technology on three relevant application contexts: Semiconductor Industry, Si Photovoltaics and 2D Materials. Overall, the envisaged results are expected to be applicable to many other industrial fields in which the materials control at the nanoscale is required, spanning from those others electronics-related (DRAM, non-volatile memory, MEMS) to those one materials science (additive manufacturing, nanocoatings) and life sciences (implants, softmatter apps) related. CHALLENGES is coordinated by a large silicon foundry company and it is strongly driven by industrial and applicative needs. The Consortium includes renowned EU research labs with top-class facilities and capacities, industry leading enterprises and innovative SMEs with a worldwide collaboration network that will boost the international dimension and impact of the project.