Abstract: A lithography method and system comprise an array of individually controllable elements, a first datapath section, a second datapath section, and a quantization device. The array of individually controllable elements modulates a beam of radiation. The first datapath section converts data defining a requested dose pattern into a stream of setpoint data defining a desired sequence of setpoints for the array of individually controllable elements. The second datapath section stores and reproduces the stream of setpoint data for the array of individually controllable elements. The quantization device digitizes the stream of setpoint data before it is passed from the first datapath section to the second datapath section. The first datapath section further comprises a noise controller configured to incorporate noise of a predetermined magnitude into the stream of setpoint data before it is digitized by the quantization device.

Abstract: A lithographic apparatus is disclosed including a liquid supply system configured to at least partly fill a space between the projection system and the substrate with a liquid, an outlet configured to remove a mixture of liquid and gas passing through a gap between a liquid confinement structure of the liquid supply system and the substrate, and an evacuation system configured to draw the mixture through the outlet, the evacuation system having a separator tank arranged to separate liquid from gas in the mixture and a separator tank pressure controller, connected to a non-liquid-filled region of the separator tank, configured to maintain a stable pressure within the non-liquid-filled region.

Abstract: Liquid is supplied to a space between the projection system and the substrate by an inlet. In an embodiment, an overflow region removes liquid above a given level. The overflow region may be arranged above the inlet and thus the liquid may be constantly refreshed and the pressure in the liquid may remain substantially constant.

Abstract: In an immersion lithography apparatus, the immersion liquid is supplied from a tank via a flow restrictor. The liquid held in the tank is maintained at a substantially constant height above the flow restrictor to ensure a constant flow of liquid.

Abstract: Organophosphonic polymers of general formula (I) where Y is a methyl or ethyl group or hydrogen and Z is hydrogen, the ammonium group, an alcaline metal or an alcaline earth metal. A method for producing these polymers comprises three stages: production of a monomer by reacting a ketene with diethylphosphite in the presence of an acid catalyst; polymerization of the monomer in solution in a solvent by means of a free radical initiator; hydrolysis of the polymer obtained by means of a concentrated solution of inorganic or inorganic based acid. Aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxyde stabilized by means of said polymers.