Canon has recently revealed its FPA-1200NZ2C, a nanoimprint semiconductor manufacturing tool that can be used to make advanced chips. The device uses nanoimprint lithography (NIL) technology as an alternative to photolithography, and can theoretically challenge extreme ultraviolet (EUV) and deep ultraviolet (DUV) lithography tools when it comes to resolution.

Unlike traditional DUV and EUV photolithography equipment that transfers a circuit pattern onto a resist-coated wafer through projection, nanoimprint tool employs a different technique. It uses a mask, embossed with the circuit pattern, which directly presses against the resist on the wafer. This method eliminates the need for an optical mechanism in the pattern transfer process, which promises a more accurate reproduction of intricate circuit patterns from the mask to the wafer. In theory, NIL enables formation of complex two- or three-dimensional circuit patterns in a single step, which promises to lower costs. NIL itself is not a new technology, but it has remained in parallel development over the years, while the challenges involved in further improving photolithography have Canon believing that now is a good time for a second-look.

Canon says that its FPA-1200NZ2C enables patterning with a minimum linewidth (critical dimensions, CD) of 14 nm, which is good enough to 'stamp' a circa 26-nm minimum metal pitch, and therefore suitable for 5 nm-class process technologies. That would be in line with capabilities of ASML's Twinscan NXE:3400C (and similar) EUV lithography scanners with a 0.33 numerical aperture (NA) optics.

Meanwhile, Canon says that further refinements of its technology, its tool can achieve finer resolutions that can enable 3 nm and even 2 nm-class production nodes.

Nanoimprint lithography offers several compelling advantages over photolithography. Primarily, NIL excels in resolution, enabling the creation of structures at the nanometer scale with remarkable precision without using photomasks. This technology bypasses the diffraction limits encountered in conventional photolithography, allowing for more intricate and smaller features. Additionally, NIL operates without the necessity of complex optics or high-energy radiation sources, leading to potentially lower operational costs and simpler equipment.

Another advantage of NIL is its direct patterning capability, enabling the reproduction of three-dimensional nanostructures effectively. Such functionality makes NIL a potent tool in the production of photonics and other applications where three-dimensional nano-patterns are essential. The technology also facilitates better pattern fidelity and uniformity.

However, NIL also presents certain challenges and limitations. One notable issue is its susceptibility to defects due to the direct contact involved in the imprinting process. Particles or contaminants present on the substrate or the mold can lead to defects, which may affect the overall yield and reliability of the manufacturing process. This necessitates impeccable process control and cleanliness to maintain consistent output quality.

Additionally, NIL, in its traditional form, is a serial process, which limits its throughput and production capacity. Unlike photolithography, which can process entire wafers or large areas in a parallel fashion, NIL often involves processing smaller areas sequentially. This poses great challenges in scaling the technology for high-volume manufacturing of chips, which limits its usage for chip manufacturing. Meanwhile, NIL can be used to create photomasks for EUV and DUV. Also, it can theoretically be used to create patterned media for hard disk drives.

Source: Canon

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  • name99 - Tuesday, October 17, 2023 - link

    "Also, it can theoretically be used to create patterned media for hard disk drives."

    I like this comment! It suggests a possible economic niche where the tech can get started, and a path to generally available patterned media (which are required for the next big jump in magnetic media capacity).
    Reply
  • Threska - Tuesday, October 17, 2023 - link

    "It uses a mask, embossed with the circuit pattern, which directly presses against the resist on the wafer. "

    Contact printing.
    Reply
  • lefty2 - Tuesday, October 17, 2023 - link

    Is this some type of marketing reboot? The FPA-1200NZ2C was released 6 years ago according to this: https://global.canon/en/news/2017/20170720.html Reply
  • The Hardcard - Tuesday, October 17, 2023 - link

    That wasn’t a market release, but an announcement that they provided it to Toshiba Memory. What’s new is that it now appears to be generally available. Reply
  • lefty2 - Wednesday, October 18, 2023 - link

    not really. other companies were using it 6 years ago: https://semiengineering.com/what-happened-to-nanoi... Reply
  • The Hardcard - Friday, October 20, 2023 - link

    No, there is only one Toshiba. Both your links refer to the same machine. Reply
  • Anymoore - Tuesday, October 17, 2023 - link

    Canon's NIL is sequentially stepped just like ASML scanners, so there is no serial vs. non-serial.

    Using NIL for DUV/EUV masks is an interesting proposition, it would actually be harder because the pattern would cover a larger area.
    Reply
  • Anymoore - Wednesday, October 18, 2023 - link

    The obvious market would be the companies without EUV, or even better, countries like India who want to start building their own fabs. They can bypass the entire ASML wait list. Reply
  • nandnandnand - Wednesday, October 18, 2023 - link

    Chyna has entered the chat. Reply
  • Dante Verizon - Wednesday, October 18, 2023 - link

    It would be helpful in reducing costs as well. ASML has a monopoly on its hands. Reply

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