Abstract:
An embodiment includes forming an isolation region between first and second active regions in a semiconductor, forming an opening between the first and second active regions by removing a portion of the isolation region, and forming a dielectric plug within the opening so that the dielectric plug is between the first and second active regions and so that a portion of the dielectric plug extends below upper surfaces of the first and second active regions. The dielectric plug may be formed of a dielectric material having a lower removal rate than a dielectric material of the isolation region for a particular isotropic removal chemistry.
Abstract:
Methods for forming a string of memory cells, apparatuses having a string of memory cells, and systems are disclosed. One such method for forming a string of memory cells forms a source material over a substrate. A capping material may be formed over the source material. A select gate material may be formed over the capping material. A plurality of charge storage structures may be formed over the select gate material in a plurality of alternating levels of control gate and insulator materials. A first opening may be formed through the plurality of alternating levels of control gate and insulator materials, the select gate material, and the capping material. A channel material may be formed along the sidewall of the first opening. The channel material has a thickness that is less than a width of the first opening, such that a second opening is formed by the semiconductor channel material.