Abstract: A light absorbing medium is interposed between a photosensitive layer, such as a photoresist layer, and the surface upon which the photosensitive layer is to be applied in order to eliminate surface effects which result from the reflection of light which passes through the photosensitive layer and is then reflected upward from the surface back into the photosensitive layer. The light absorbing medium may be either a quarter-wave plate or a filter chosen to absorb light of the energy spectrum to which the photosensitive layer is sensitive.

Abstract: A high resolution fluorescent screen including an amorphous coating of fluorescent dye on a substrate transparent to visible light is used to enable an observer to examine photomasks of the type used in manufacturing integrated circuits by using ultraviolet light. The screen converts ultraviolet light passing through the photomask into visible light. The screen is comprised of a transparent substrate having a high resolution amorphous coating of fluorescent dye in a binder on one side. Alternatively, a transparent substrate including a fluorescent material, such as uranium glass, may be used. On the other side of the substrate an ultraviolet blocking filter is applied to prevent ultraviolet light from injuring the eye of an observer using the screen.