Three-dimensional atomic-scale mapping of Pd in Ni1−xPdxSi∕Si(100) thin films

Atom-probe tomography was utilized to map the three-dimensional distribution of Pd atoms in nickel monosilicide thin films on Si(100). A solid-solution Ni0.95Pd0.05 film on a Si(100) substrate was subjected to rapid thermal processing plus steady-state annealing to simulate the thermal processing experienced by NiSi source and drain contacts in standard complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor processes. Pd is found to segregate at the (Ni0.95Pd0.05)Si∕Si(100) heterophase interface, which may provide a previously unrecognized contribution to monosilicide stabilization. The silicide-Si heterophase interface was reconstructed in three dimensions on an atomic scale and its chemical roughness was evaluated.