Abstract: A mobile ion getterer is added to metalization layers on an integrated circuit or discrete device to reduce mobile ion contamination therein. Preferably, chromium is used as the mobile ion getterer and is added to an aluminum target used as the metal source for sputtering the chromium and aluminum onto the integrated circuit or discrete device. This technique removes the need for ultrahigh purity aluminum conductors or gettering material (P-glass) in contact with the metal conductors. This technique may be used with virtually all metalization apparatus and processes used for depositing metal onto semiconductor devices.

Abstract: A mobile ion getterer is added to metalization layers on an integrated circuit or discrete device to reduce mobile ion contamination therein. Preferably, chromium is used as the mobile ion getterer and is added to an aluminum target used as the metal source for sputtering the chromium and aluminum onto the integrated circuit or discrete device. This technique removes the need for ultra-high purity aluminum conductors or gettering material (P-glass) in contact with the metal conductors. This technique may be used with virtually all metalization apparatus and processes used for depositing metal onto semiconductor devices.