Abstract: A process for contouring a via formed in a dielectrics whereby a layer of a refractory metal is formed on the dielectric and in the via. The refractory metal layer is removed until a surface of the refractory metal within the via is below the upper surface of the dielectric. An etching process removes a portion of the dielectric and a tapered shape is formed at the intersection of the via and the upper surface of the dielectric. A second layer of metal is formed over the dielectric, with the second layer of metal extending into the vias and contacting the refractory metal with the tapered shape providing improved step coverage of the second layer of metal at the via.

Abstract: An isolation structure as well as a method for using and fabricating an isolation structure in an active layer deposited on a substrate the method of fabrication including the steps of forming a buried oxide layer in the active layer adjacent the substrate, forming an isolation trench in the active layer by etching at least up to and optionally into the substrate, forming a dielectric isolation layer on the exposed surfaces of the trench, removing the dielectric isolation layer from the bottom of the trench, and forming an isolation structure by epitaxially growing monocrystalline silicon in the trench.

Abstract: An isolation structure as well as a method for using and fabricating an isolation structure in an active layer deposited on a substrate the method of fabrication including the steps of forming a buried oxide layer in the active layer adjacent the substrate, forming an isolation trench in the active layer by etching at least up to and optionally into the substrate, forming a dielectric isolation layer on the exposed surfaces of the trench, removing the dielectric isolation layer from the bottom of the trench, and forming an isolation structure by epitaxially growing monocrystalline silicon in the trench.