Post metal etch photoresist strip method

Abstract

An improved method for removing a photoresist mask from an etched aluminum pattern after etching the pattern in a chlorine containing plasma has been developed. The method is a five step process, in which the first step is in a microwave generated plasma containing O2 and H2O; the second step is in a microwave generated plasma containing O2 and N2; the third step is in a microwave generated plasma containing H2O; the fourth step is in a microwave generated plasma containing O2 and N2; and the fifth step is in a microwave generated plasma containing H2O. The first step which initiates removal of photoresist while simultaneously beginning the passivation process causes residue-free removal of photoresist following etching of aluminum or aluminum-copper layers in chlorine bearing etchants.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.