Abstract: The invention relates to new polymers that comprise units that contain one or more photoacid generator groups and photoresists that contain the polymers. Preferred polymers of the invention are suitable for use in photoresists imaged at short wavelengths such as sub-250 nm or sub-200 nm, particularly 248 nm and 193 nm.

Abstract: Underlying coating compositions are provided for use with an overcoated photoresist composition. In one aspect, the coating composition can be crosslinked and comprise one or more components that contain one or more acid-labile groups and/or one or more base-reactive groups that are reactive following crosslinking. In another aspect, underlying coating composition are provided that can be treated to provide a modulated water contact angle. Preferred coating compositions can enhance lithographic performance of an associated photoresist composition.

Abstract: Photoresist compositions having a resin binder with an acid labile blocking group with an activation energy in excess of 20 Kcal/mol. for deblocking, a photoacid generator capable of generating a halogenated sulfonic acid upon photolysis and optionally, a base.

Abstract: The present invention provides new photoresist compositions that comprise a resin binder, a photoactive component, particularly an acid generator, and a dye material that contains one or more chromophores that can reduce undesired reflections of exposure radiation. Preferred dye compounds are polymeric materials that include one or more chromophores such as anthracene and other polycyclic moieties that effectively absorb deep UV exposure radiation.

Abstract: Antihalation compositions and methods for reducing the reflection of exposure radiation of a photoresist overcoated said compositions. The antihalation compositions of the invention comprise a resin binder and material capable of causing a thermally induced crosslinking reaction of the resin binder.

Abstract: The present invention provides radiation sensitive compositions and methods that comprise novel means for providing relief images of enhanced resolution. In one aspect the invention provides a method for controlling diffusion of photogenerated acid comprising adding a polar compound to a radiation sensitive composition and applying a layer of the composition to a substrate; exposing the composition layer to activating radiation whereby a latent image is generated comprising a distribution of acid moieties complexed with the polar compound; and treating the exposed composition layer to provide an activating amount of acid.

Abstract: New methods and compositions are provided that enable application and processing of photoresist as thick coating layers, e.g. at dried layer (post soft-bake) thicknesses of in excess of 2 microns. Resists can be imaged at short wavelengths in accordance with the invention, including 248 nm.

Abstract: A photoresist that utilizes a copolymer of a phenol and a cyclic alcohol having increased optical transmission properties relative to photoresists using fully aromatic phenolic resins. Preferred binders are hydrogenated novolak resins and hydrogenated polyvinyl phenol resins.

Abstract: A photoresist that utilizes a copolymer of a phenol and a cyclic alcohol having increased optical transmission properties relative to photoresists using fully aromatic phenolic resins. Preferred binders are hydrogenated novolak resins and hydrogenated polyvinyl phenol resins.