Applied Materials, Inc.
METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTROSTATIC CHUCK PROTECTION

Abstract:

Methods and apparatus for increasing voltage breakdown levels of an electrostatic chuck in a process chamber. A soft anodization layer with a thickness of greater than zero and less than approximately 10 microns is formed on an aluminum base of the electrostatic chuck. The soft anodization layer remains thermally elastic in a temperature range of approximately -50 degrees Celsius to approximately 100 degrees Celsius. An alumina spray coating is then applied on the soft anodization layer. The soft anodization layer provides thermal stress relief between the aluminum base and the alumina spray coating to reduce/eliminate cracking caused by the thermal expansion rate differences between the aluminum base and the alumina spray coating.