A method for forming a damascene structure by providing a single process
solution for resist ashing while avoiding and repairing plasma etching
damage as well as removing absorbed moisture in the dielectric layer, the
method including providing a substrate comprising an uppermost
photoresist layer and an opening extending through a thickness of an
inter-metal dielectric (IMD) layer to expose an underlying metal region;
and, carrying out at least one supercritical fluid treatment comprising
supercritical CO2, a first co-solvent, and an additive selected from the
group consisting of a metal corrosion inhibitor and a metal
anti-oxidation agent to remove the uppermost photoresist layer, as well
as including an optional dielectric insulating layer bond forming agent.