A novel method to remove photoresist using low molecular weight alcohols (e
.g., isopropanol) is described. This process produces a dry surface in a si
ngle step; no additional rinsing or drying is required. Results of atomic f
orce microscopy (AFM) analysis show no appreciable change in microroughness
of aluminum, silicon, or silicon dioxide surfaces upon alcohol treatment.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of post isopropanol-treated surfaces
indicates that organic contamination levels as measured by XPS are similar
to those resulting from RCA cleans. Low dose ion implanted (2E12 B or P at
oms/cm(2)) photoresist can be removed at room temperature (27 degrees C). P
ressures in the range of 60 to 100 psi and temperatures between 50 and 100
degrees C are required to remove photoresist implanted with 2 x 10(15) B or
F atoms/cm(2). The likely photoresist removal mechanism appears to he diss
olution of the polymer matrix by the alcohols. Contact angle measurements s
uggest that the photoresist has been removed, although a residual adhesive
layer applied prior to photoresist spin coating may remain on the surface.
(C) 2000 The Electrochemical Society. S0013-4651(99)11-044-9. All rights re
served.