An improved electrical interconnect for an integrated circuit and methods
for providing the same are disclosed. The electrical interconnect
includes an air bridge extending through a gaseous medium so as to reduce
the capacitance of the interconnect. The air bridge is supported at a
first and second end such that the air bridge is suspended above the
substrate. The air bridge comprises a highly conductive material, such as
silver, so as to provide the air bridge with a reduced resistivity. To
inhibit gaseous medium from contaminating the air bridge, the air bridge
further comprises an adherent coating interposed between the air bridge
and the gaseous medium. A method of forming the electrical interconnect
is also disclosed, wherein, prior to forming the adherent coating, the
conductive material is processed so as to form fewer grain boundaries,
which enhances the electrical properties of the air bridge.