A method of processing a substrate comprising depositing a layer
comprising amorphous carbon on the substrate and then laser annealing the
substrate is provided. Optionally, the layer further comprises a dopant
selected from the group consisting of nitrogen, boron, phosphorus,
fluorine, and combinations thereof. In one aspect, the layer comprising
amorphous carbon is an anti-reflective coating and an absorber layer that
absorbs electromagnetic radiation emitted by the laser and anneals a top
surface layer of the substrate.