Abstract: A multilayer photoresist system for defining very small features on a semiconductor substrate relies on forming a planarization layer directly over the substrate. An image transfer layer is formed over the planarization layer, and a photoresist imaging layer formed over the image transfer layer. The image transfer layer comprises an organic or inorganic resin which has been cured in a non-oxidated plasma. It has been found that such a curing technique provides a particularly smooth and defect-free image transfer layer. Very thin photoresist imaging layers may thus be formed over the image transfer layer, allowing very high lithographic resolution in the imaging layer. The resulting high resolution openings may then be transferred downward to the image transfer layer and planarization layer by etching, allowing the formation of very small geometries on the substrate surface.

Abstract: A method is disclosed of etching a refractory metal layer on a semiconductor structure comprising subjecting it to a mixture of a Lewis base and an oxidizing agent. In the preferred embodiment a method is described for etching a tungsten-titanium layer on a semiconductor structure by immersing it in a mixture of triethylamine and hydrogen peroxide.

Abstract: Bromine-containing plasma is utilized to inhibit corrosion of aluminum or aluminum alloy films which have been etched utilizing a chlorinated plasma.

Abstract: A process for patterning regions on a semiconductor structure comprises the steps of forming a first layer of an alloy of tungsten and titanium on the semiconductor structure, forming a conductive layer of aluminum or chemically similar material on the surface of the tungsten-titanium alloy, removing the undesired portions of the conductive layer by etching with a plasma and removing the thereby exposed portions of the tungsten-titanium alloy layer by chemical etching.