Abstract: Compositions suitable for forming planarizing underlayers for multilayer lithographic processes are characterized by the presence of (A) a polymer containing: (i) cyclic ether moieties, (ii) saturated polycyclic moieties, and (iii) aromatic moieties for compositions not requiring a separate crosslinker, or (B) a polymer containing: (i) saturated polycyclic moieties, and (ii) aromatic moieties for compositions requiring a separate crosslinker. The compositions provide outstanding optical, mechanical and etch selectivity properties. The compositions are especially useful in lithographic processes using radiation less than 200 nm in wavelength to configure underlying material layers.

Abstract: Compositions suitable for forming planarizing underlayers for multilayer lithographic processes are characterized by the presence of (A) a polymer containing: (i) cyclic ether moieties, (ii) saturated polycyclic moieties, and (iii) aromatic moieties for compositions not requiring a separate crosslinker, or (B) a polymer containing: (i) saturated polycyclic moieties, and (ii) aromatic moieties for compositions requiring a separate crosslinker. The compositions provide outstanding optical, mechanical and etch selectivity properties. The compositions are especially useful in lithographic processes using radiation less than 200 nm in wavelength to configure underlying material layers.

Abstract: Pressure management apparatus are provided herein for coupling to an end of a vent pipe of a storage tank. Exemplary pressure management apparatus include a removable filter adapted to minimize and/or prevent debris from traveling from an interior of a storage tank to an interior of a housing of the pressure management apparatus. Further exemplary pressure management apparatus include a pressure valve with a high pressure valve portion and a low pressure valve portion. Methods of providing a pressure management apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides photoresists and resist preparative methods. Methods of the invention include treatment of a resist resin with methylene chloride or other organic solvent to remove low molecular weight materials. It has been found that the treated resin can be formulated into resists that provide manufactured electronic devices with significantly reduced defects.

Abstract: Compositions suitable for forming planarizing underlayers for multilayer lithographic processes are characterized by the presence of (A) a polymer containing: (i) cyclic ether moieties, (ii) saturated polycyclic moieties, and (iii) aromatic moieties for compositions not requiring a separate crosslinker, or (B) a polymer containing: (i) saturated polycyclic moieties, and (ii) aromatic moieties for compositions requiring a separate crosslinker. The compositions provide outstanding optical, mechanical and etch selectivity properties. The compositions are especially useful in lithographic processes using radiation less than 200 nm in wavelength to configure underlying material layers.

Abstract: A radiation sensitive resist composition exhibiting high resolution and enhanced etch resistance comprising a silicon containing polymeric additive, a non-silicon containing base polymer, a photoacid generator and a base is provided. A method of forming a patterned resist film is also provided. A resist film having an upper surface region enriched with silicon is also disclosed.