Lam Research Corporation
Method and apparatus for synchronized pressure regulation of separated anode chamber

Abstract:

Electroplating results can be improved by dynamically controlling the pressure in different parts of an electroplating apparatus. For example, a number of plating problems can be avoided by ensuring that the pressure in an anode chamber always remains slightly above the pressure in an ionically resistive element manifold, both during electroplating and during non-electroplating operations. This pressure differential prevents the membrane from stretching downward into the anode chamber.