| abstract |
Aqueous compositions for stripping titanium nitride (TiN or TiNxOy) hard mask and removing etch residue are low pH aqueous composition comprising solvent, a weakly coordinating anion, amine, and at least two non-oxidizing trace metal ions. The aqueous compositions contain no non-ambient oxidizer, and are exposed to air. Bifluoride, or metal corrosion inhibitor may be added to the aqueous composition. Systems and processes use the aqueous compositions for stripping titanium nitride (TiN or TiNxOy) hard mask and removing titanium nitride (TiN or TiNxOy) etch residue. |