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Yttrium Oxide Y2O3 Evaporation Process Notes

Yttrium oxide is a chemical compound with a chemical formula of Y2O3. It is white in color with a melting point of 2,410°C, a density of 5.01 g/cc, and a vapor pressure of 10-4 Torr at ~2,000°C. It is considered to be the most important yttrium compound. Yttrium oxide is used to make phosphors which provide the color red in televisions and yttrium iron garnets are an important element of microwave filters. It is evaporated under vacuum for the fabrication of semiconductors and passive components.

Yttrium Oxide Y2O3 Specifications

Material TypeYttrium Oxide
SymbolY2O3
Color/AppearanceWhite, Crystalline Solid
Melting Point (°C)2,410
Theoretical Density (g/cc)5.01
SputterRF, RF-R
Max Power Density
(Watts/Square Inch)
20*
Type of BondIndium, Elastomer
Z Ratio**1.00
E-BeamGood
Thermal Evaporation Techniques Boat:  W
Crucible:  C
E-Beam Crucible Liner MaterialFABMATE®, Graphite, Tungsten
Temp. (°C) for Given Vap. Press. (Torr) 10-4:  ~2,000
CommentsLoses oxygen; films smooth and clear.

** The z-ratio is unknown. Therefore, we recommend using 1.00 or an experimentally determined value. Please click here for instructions on how to determine this value.

* This is a recommendation based on our experience running these materials in KJLC guns. The ratings are based on unbonded targets and are material specific. Bonded targets should be run at lower powers to prevent bonding failures. Bonded targets should be run at 20 Watts/Square Inch or lower, depending on the material.

Z-Factors

Empirical Determination of Z-Factor

Unfortunately, Z Factor and Shear Modulus are not readily available for many materials. In this case, the Z-Factor can also be determined empirically using the following method:

  • Deposit material until Crystal Life is near 50%, or near the end of life, whichever is sooner.
  • Place a new substrate adjacent to the used quartz sensor.
  • Set QCM Density to the calibrated value; Tooling to 100%
  • Zero thickness
  • Deposit approximately 1000 to 5000 A of material on the substrate.
  • Use a profilometer or interferometer to measure the actual substrate film thickness.
  • Adjust the Z Factor of the instrument until the correct thickness reading is shown.

Another alternative is to change crystals frequently and ignore the error. The graph below shows the % Error in Rate/Thickness from using the wrong Z Factor. For a crystal with 90% life, the error is negligible for even large errors in the programmed versus actual Z Factor.

Yttrium Oxide (Y2O3) Products
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