A method of forming a via contact structure using a dual damascene process
is disclosed. According to one embodiment a sacrificial layer is formed
on an insulating interlayer during the formation of a preliminary via
hole. The sacrificial layer has the same composition as a layer filling
the preliminary via hole in a subsequent trench formation process. The
sacrificial layer and the layer filling the preliminary via hole are
simultaneously removed after the trench formation process is carried out.
According to another embodiment, a thin capping oxide layer is formed on
an insulating interlayer during the formation of a preliminary via hole.
The thin capping oxide layer is removed together with a sacrificial layer
after a trench formation process is carried out.