This test is performed to verify the structural quality of the glassivation layer in aluminium metallized semiconductor devices or microcircuits. The glassivation layer is a deposited dielectric film (e.g., CVD, sputtered of electron beam evaporated glass or nitride, etc.) and its good condition is essential to avoid such problems as electromigration.
General view of a die
This test is performed to verify the structural quality of the glassivation layer in aluminium metallized semiconductor devices or microcircuits. The glassivation layer is a deposited dielectric film (e.g., CVD, sputtered of electron beam evaporated glass or nitride, etc.) and its good condition is essential to avoid such problems as electromigration.
Defective glassivation
Lot rejection shall be based on the appearance of etched aluminium at any location other than along the edges immediately adjacent to intentionally unglassed areas (e.g., bonding pads, die edge, scribe line, etc.) as shown on figures 2021-1 to 2021-7 of MIL-STD-883, method 2021.
The defects detected in the glassivation layer shall be categorized as follows:
Category A:
- Missing glassivation over aluminium (Figure 2021-1 of MIL-STD-883 method 2011)
Category B:
- Cracks in glass over aluminium (Figure 2021-2 of MIL-STD-883 method 2011)
Category C:
- Cracks in glass or improper glass coverage along the edge of aluminium (Figure 2021-3 of MIL-STD-883 method 2011)
Category D:
- Pinholes in glass on the top surface and edges of aluminium (figure 2021-4 of MIL-STD-883 method 2011)