Abstract: The present invention provides new light absorbing compositions suitable for use as antireflective coating compositions (“ARCs”), particularly for deep UV applications. The antireflective compositions of the invention in general comprise a resin binder component that contains a high molecular weight polymer, e.g. a polymer having an Mw of at least about 40,000 daltons. ARCs of the invention exhibit exceptional conformality upon application to a substrate surface. For example, ARCs of the invention can coat substantial topography such as vertical and sloping steps with high conformality.

Abstract: The invention provides new light absorbing crosslinking compositions suitable for use as an antireflective composition, particularly for deep UV applications. The antireflective compositions of the invention comprise a photoacid generator that is activated during exposure of an overcoated photoresist. Antireflective compositions of the invention can significantly reduce undesired footing of an overcoated resist relief image.

Abstract: A method for making an acrylic resin photoresist characterized by polymerization of an acrylic monomer in a solvent that dissolves all monomers and resultant polymers. The use of the solvent permits formation of acrylic resins suitable for use in the preparation of photoresists without recovery from its reaction mixture. Photoresists prepared from such polymers have improved transparency, especially at exposures of 193 mn or less.