ELEVATED STATIONARY UNIFORMITY RING

A plasma processing reactor for processing a semiconductor substrate is disclosed. The apparatus includes a chamber. Additionally, the chamber includes a bottom electrode that is configured for holding the substrate. The apparatus further includes a stationary uniformity ring that is configured to surround the periphery of the substrate. Furthermore, the stationary uniformity ring is coupled to a portion of the chamber and disposed above the bottom electrode in a spaced apart relationship to form a vertical space above the bottom electrode. Further, the vertical space is configured to provide room for ingress and egress of the substrate. Also, the stationary uniformity ring has a thickness that substantially reduces diffusion of a first species from outside the stationary uniformity ring toward an edge of the substrate.