Patent ID: 11796916

Abstract:
A pattern formation method, comprising: (a) providing a semiconductor substrate; (b) forming a photoresist pattern over the semiconductor substrate, wherein the photoresist pattern is formed from a photoresist composition comprising: a first polymer comprising acid labile groups; and a photoacid generator; (c) coating a pattern overcoat composition over the photoresist pattern, wherein the pattern overcoat composition comprises a second polymer and an organic solvent, wherein the organic solvent comprises one or more ester solvents, wherein the ester solvent is of the formula R1—C(O)O—R2, wherein R1 is a C3-C6 alkyl group and R2 is a C5-C10 alkyl group; (d) baking the coated photoresist pattern; and (e) rinsing the coated photoresist pattern with a rinsing agent to remove the second polymer. The methods find particular applicability in the manufacture of semiconductor devices.