New Insights into TDDB in FinFET Based on Strain Analysis at the Atomistic Scale

Zuoyuan Dong, Zixuan Sun, Lan Li, Zirui Wang, Changqing Ye, Yu Yao, Jialu Huang, Xiaomei Li, Xing Wu, Runsheng Wang

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Gate dielectric time-dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB) is a critical reliability concern in FinFET devices. However, the microscopic failure mechanism of on-state TDDB (|Vgs| > 0, |Vds| > 0) is different from Vgs-only TDDB (|Vgs| > 0, |Vds| =0) due to the impact of channel current. In this study, aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and advanced strain analysis are employed to observe the physical evolution during the breakdown process of FinFETs from an atomic perspective. It is discovered that breakdown-induced silicon epitaxial defects are generated at the corners of the fin for Vgs -only TDDB, while shifted to the middle of the fin for on-state TDDB. The formation of these defects on the Si <110> orientation is accompanied by tensile strain. This work provides new insights into different types of TDDB phenomena in FinFETs at the atomic scale.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2025 IEEE International Reliability Physics Symposium, IRPS 2025 - Proceedings
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
ISBN (Electronic)9798331504779
DOIs
StatePublished - 2025
Event2025 IEEE International Reliability Physics Symposium, IRPS 2025 - Monterey, United States
Duration: 30 Mar 20253 Apr 2025

Publication series

NameIEEE International Reliability Physics Symposium Proceedings
ISSN (Print)1541-7026

Conference

Conference2025 IEEE International Reliability Physics Symposium, IRPS 2025
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityMonterey
Period30/03/253/04/25

Keywords

  • Atomic-scale defect
  • FinFET
  • Strain analysis
  • TDDB
  • TEM

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