Application of spatial light modulators for microlithography

The Fraunhofer IPMS and Micronic Laser Systems AB have developed a technology for the maskless DUV microlithography using spatial light modulation (SLM). This technology uses an array of micromirrors as a proprogrammable mask, which allows writing up to 1 million pixels with a framerate of up to 2 kHz. The SLM is fabricated at the IPMS using its high-voltage CMOS process. The mirrors are fabricated by surface micromachining using a polymer as sacrificial layer. The mirrors are operated in an analog mode to allow sub-pixel placement of the features.