Fabrication Process Changes for Performance Improvement of a RF MEMS Resonator: Conformable Contact Lithography, Moire Alignment, and Chlorine Dry Etching

Abstract

This thesis presents fabrication process improvements for a RP MEMS resonator for the purpose of improving the quality factor (Q) and extending the frequency range. The process changes include the use of conformable contact lithography (CCL) and chlorine-based dry etching for improved fine-feature patterning and moire-based alignment techniques to allow for a non-self-aligned process. The resulting control over feature size and structure are expected to improve Q and enable higher frequency resonators. A CCL process utilizing moire alignment marks is described. An automated moire-based alignment system using Labview software is presented which demonstrates sub-100 nm alignment accuracy for a single alignment mark. A full-water alignment experiment is described that demonstrates average pattern placement errors of \ 0.187 micrometers \ and \ 0.296 micrometers \ for the x and y directions respectively. The experimental limitations are analyzed and suggested improvements to the system are detailed.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 02, 2005
Accession Number
ADA434850

Entities

People

  • Mark Sakai

Organizations

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Air Force
  • Aluminum Nitrides
  • Capacitance
  • Chemical Reactions
  • Chemical Vapor Deposition
  • Chemistry
  • Crystal Structure
  • Dry Etching
  • Electrical Circuits
  • Fabrication
  • Frequency
  • Materials
  • Materials Science
  • Measurement
  • Microscopes
  • Resonant Frequency

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Nanofabrication and Microfabrication.
  • Systems Analysis and Design