Abstract: A method of treating a substrate. The method comprises forming a metal-containing layer on at least a selected portion of the substrate during a substrate cleaning process.

Abstract: A structure is formed in an integrated circuit to provide for the coupling of elements in the integrated circuit. The structure extends from a conductive surface through a channel extending above the conductive surface. The structure includes a layer of a refractory metal, a layer of a metal nitride, and a layer of a metal. The layer of the refractory metal is deposited on the conductive surface and inner walls of the channel. The layer of the metal nitride is formed on the layer of the refractory metal. The layer of the metal nitride has a thickness extending from the layer of the refractory metal of less than 130 Å. The layer of the metal is deposited on the layer of the metal nitride.

Abstract: A layer of material is formed on a substrate in a partially formed integrated circuit on a wafer. The substrate undergoes a plasma annealing, during which the substrate is bombarded with ions. The plasma annealing may be performed by exposing the substrate to plasma that is generated from a nitrogen containing gas which is infused with energy. After the substrate is plasma annealed, a layer of a refractory metal nitride is deposited on the substrate. The layer of refractory metal nitride is then bombarded with a first set of ions. The bombardment of the refractory metal by the first set of ions may be achieved by performing a plasma annealing. The refractory metal nitride may be further bombarded by a second set of ions.