Tone inverted directed self-assembly (DSA) fin patterning

1. A method for directed self-assembly (DSA) fin patterning, the method comprising:

forming a di-block copolymer layer over a neutral layer comprising a random copolymer of styrene and methyl methacrylate, the di-block copolymer layer having a first block of poly methyl methacrylate and a second block of polystyrene, the neutral layer disposed over a lithographic stack, the lithographic stack disposed over a hard mask and a substrate, and the hard mask comprising a first dielectric layer and a second dielectric layer;

removing the first block from the di-block copolymer and a corresponding portion of the neutral layer beneath the first block to define a fin pattern in the di-block copolymer layer with the second block;

etching the fin pattern into the first dielectric layer of the hard mask;

filling the fin pattern within the first dielectric layer of the hard mask with a tone inversion material, the tone-inversion material being a silicon-containing polymer or a metal oxide;

etching back the tone inversion material that overfills the fin pattern and remains on top of the first dielectric layer;

removing the first dielectric layer selectively to define an inverted fin pattern from the tone inversion material;

etching the inverted fin pattern into the second dielectric layer of the hard mask;

removing the tone inversion material; and

transferring the inverted fin pattern of the second dielectric layer into the substrate to define fins.