The present invention provides inspection methods and structures for
facilitating the visualization and/or detection of specific chip
structures. Optical or fluorescent labeling techniques are used to
"stain" a specific chip structure for easier detection of the structure.
Also, a temporary/sacrificial illuminating (e.g., fluorescent) film is
added to the semiconductor process to facilitate the detection of a
specific chip structure. Further, a specific chip structure is doped with
a fluorescent material during the semiconductor process. A method of the
present invention comprises: providing a first and a second material;
processing the first material to form a portion of a semiconductor
structure; and detecting a condition of the second material to determine
whether processing of the first material is complete.