The microstructure of metal-polyimide interfaces

Abstract

We used cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy techniques to investigate the microstructure of metal/polyimide interfaces. By comparing our results with previously obtained spectroscopy data, we show that the microstructure of these interfaces is strongly related to the tendency of the metal to chemically react with the polyimide at the interface. Cu and Ni do not react with the polyimide and are seen to diffuse inside of the films and form metallic precipitates in the films. Cr reacts with the polyimide at the interface and is thus bounded at the surface, forming a continuous layer on top of the polyimide. Computer simulations are presented that explain the experiment in terms of the different metal-metal and metal-polymer interactions. © 1988, American Vacuum Society. All rights reserved.